The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Clutch problems

My recently acquired 1952 2-ton utility dump truck was purchased with no info other than it's been sitting for 10 years. Before that everyone agrees it was a great truck. Now that I have the engine running with minimal effort, I'm finding no brakes and no apparent clutch. The fact that the cover was off the clutch (sitting in the front seat), should have warned me. Suggestions? Is it safe to put it in gear and push or drag the truck to "break things loose"? Or is the better part of valor to drop the tranny and better know what I'm dealing with first?? What tranny is likely on this truck? Anyone know what a clutch kit is likely to run if we do the work? Thanks for any insight Mark

I'm assuming that the clutch isn't disengaging when you're pushing the pedal. First make sure that all the linkage is operating properly. You should be able to see the throwout bearing move on the tranny input shaft when you press the pedal. It could be way out of adjustment and isn't moving far enough. If this isn't the case, it is possible that the clutch disc is stuck to the flywheel. I had this happen to me on an old tractor. The easiest way to break it loose: Put the tranny in high gear. Set the parking brake as tight as you can get it. Push the clutch pedal. Hit the starter. It should break it loose. If a few attempts won't do it, it's probably time to drop the tranny and take the clutch apart. Good luck