VW Diesel Mk1 Golf clutch problem

[saschw]

Driving my VW Diesel Mk1 Golf today, the clutch on the four-speed has started to stick. Ie. The clutch pedal won't fully release and is loose - it releases about two-thirds. I can tell the clutch is slipping - under acceleration, the engine "revs" up a bit.

I haven't checked much except under the bonnet- the clutch arm on the gear box isn't fully releasing.

Has anyone else had a similiar problem? I'm hoping that the gearbox might be low on oil - is it possible low oil could cause this problem?

Perhaps a spring has fallen off the clutch plate?

Shane.

[GRN_VAGN]

id say first point of call is to make sure everything is moving freely..
WD40 or some other product simelar maybe handy. just spray around some moving parts and make sure its all working as its supposed to be.

Then adjust the Clutch cable, im unsure myself how, but i have a haynes manual which describes it well.

If all that checks out, then maybe its something a bit more time consuming, like a worn clutch, or pressure plate?

Regards
Dan

[oracle1]

new clutch and pressure plate time I have exactly the same problem with mine PM golf loon for a 5 speed and heavy duty clutch he has just supplied me with one

[oracle1]

is there tension on the clutch cable indicating the cable needs a lube and is holding the clutch open. push down on the clutch fork and see if there is any travel this will tell you wether the pressure plate is failing or its a sticky cable. It has nothing to do with gearbox oil except maybe the input shaft or rear main seal leaking around the clutch if this was happening there would be lots of oil about.

[Peter Jones]

Your cable is most likely shot, replace it.

They fray internally and the loose ends jam up inside the sheath. Eventually the cable will snap completely and leave you stranded at a 7/11 on Canterbury road on the hottest day of the year.



Pete

[oracle1]

there is no substitute for experience on type this forum is invaluable!

[gldgti]

yup, definately clutch cable.

[saschw]

Thanks to all who responded. To Peter, I feel your pain!

As it turned out, some of the plastic cable insulation had broken off and was jamming the clutch pedal; which was preventing it from releasing.

So, just a matter of removing the cable, cutting off the broken piece of insulation, and refitting.

Perhaps I should go buy a tattslotto ticket.

Regards, Shane.