Help: Trans or Clutch problem??

[WD-40]

I need your help....

Im having some problems with either the transmission or clutch in my 01 WS6. I dont know jack about either. I just turned 99K miles on it and have had it since brand new and hardly ever drive it hard. All miles are mostly interstate. No mods except for cat back.

Symptoms:
I just recently have started having a difficult time putting into gear at times. Like when I pull up to a red light and put the car in neutral then when the light turns and I go to put it into first. I have to try and put it into other gears and keep trying until it finally goes in.

If I sit at the red light with it in first gear, it seems like the clutch almost wants to disengage. It feels like its surge/pulling, although only very slightly.

I also heard a very short high pitch squeal today and it sounded like it was coming from the bell housing.


The clutch is not slipping or anything and the fluid is full.


Any ideas on what this might be or how to troubleshoot?

[01blackbird]

Well the way your discribing, it sounds like the pressure plate is not completely dis-engaging from the disc. Usually it means you need a clutch assembly. But I know these f-bodies don't have the best clutch hydralic set up. It would be easier and cheaper to first replace your master/hydralic unit though it's a little bit of a pain in the butt. But chances are most likely your going to need a clutch and if you do change it, yes install a new throw out bearing! Good luck.

P.S. I do believe it's more of a clutch issue than your trans.

[shady milkman]

its not grinding or anything is it? i agree with the above post. that or syncs are screwed up, but i doubt that is the case.

[WD-40]

Thanks guys.

I have a friend coming over tomorrow to look at it. He said the same thing about the pressure plate not disengaging.

[shady milkman]

hey man thanks for the reputation things :yup:

[Y2KPewterSS]

I was going to suggest the syncros as well, but Shady beat me too it :)

[s99ta]

is the release point of the pedal real low if so its probably the hydraulics but with the mileage id say replace the clutch, throwout bearing/slave cylinder and the clutch master cylinder

[Wesman]

Sounds like symptoms of a sticking pressure plate. If the clutch doesn't disengage all the way, you're going to have trouble getting it into gear, and you're going to feel the car trying to move forward, even with the clutch to the floor.

I'd replace the hydraulics (master and slave cylinder) and get a new clutch if the current one appears worn out upon inspection.

[WD-40]

Update for those that are interested or may come by later....

Looks like the problem was a bad slave cyclinder. Replaced clutch and slave cylinder and everything feels fine so far. I also have a master cylinder but havent put it in yet. I also found the pilot bearing was trashed! Dont know why that happened... Hmmm...

Thanks for the help everyone.