AA2000

Hi all,

I have a different kind of clutch problem than what I've found w/ the search feature. I was hoping some of you motorheads might shed some light on my "issue." Here's the problem...

Here's the setting/spec:

02 w/ 38k miles, swapped out the clutch and flywheel with ACT kit (disk and plate) and Comptech flywheel. After install, clutch felt GREAT!

About 1,200 miles later, I felt some "stickiness" on the clutch pedal when the clutch is open (all the way to the floor) and the "length of stickiness" goes away quickly as I close the clutch.

I thought it would be dirty fluids so I had my fluids changed w/ Super Blue fluid.

It felt somewhat the same but not as bad. PLUS -- when the car is cold or haven't been driven, the clutch pedal squeaks from all the way open and as it begins to close.

I check my reservoir everytime I drive it and there's plenty of fluid there since the fluid change.

I'm at a loss of ideas now. I'm thinking there may be a leak but that doesn't explain the fact that the fluid level hasn't changed. I haven't touched the master/slave cylinders. Currently, it has 41k miles.

I've put about 3k miles on the new clutch setup and about 500-750 miles on the new fluid.

Thank you all for your help. I've also PM'ed xviper for some ideas.

Thanks!

AA2000

Also might I add that when the car is cold, engagement into gears (1st or R) is hard.

As I read the other posts from my search, should I take it in to have the cylinders looked at and/or have them look for leaks?

Slows2k

Since you have allready changed the Fluid in the clutch hydraulics, The only other sources for your "stickyness" are the pedal itself, and the fork, clutch disc splines in the bellhousing. It's pretty rare the pedal gives any problems.

I'd bet either insufficient lubrication or rusted splines on the mainshaft, causing the disc to drag or stick on the mainshaft. The throwout bearing guide may also be damaged/dirty/corroded/not lubricated.

AA2000

[QUOTE=Slows2k,Jan 27 2005, 06:55 PM] Since you have allready changed the Fluid in the clutch hydraulics, The only other sources for your "stickyness" are the pedal itself, and the fork, clutch disc splines in the bellhousing.

Slows2k

You are supposed to grease several areas when replacing the clutch. I have yet to see any Honda with a failed Throwout bearing that would cause this.

AA2000

damn, if this worst case scenario is the problem, then I'm looking at labor again to bring/tilt down the engine to open up the housing huh?

Slows2k

Unfortunately, yes. Just to inspect the trans will have to be removed.

AA2000

What about the master/slave cylinders? Could those be wearing or have problems, which is causing the uneven flow and stickiness of the pedal?

It just seems highly unlikely that the clutch installation was flawed, especially if it was done by a good shop. (or maybe I'm just trying to delay the inevitable )

Slows2k

It is possible, but the combination of a squeaky and sticking pedal is usually from inside the clutch housing. Especially if the noise didn't go away after changing the fluid.

Changing the Hydraulic fluid usually decreases the "stickyness" if it was a problem with either cylinder.

AA2000

Thanks for the ideas and responses, slow... I'll take it to a friend's shop and see what he finds.