99 solara clutch replacement

[jakdaddy]

Hello, New to the forum, forgive me if this has been covered before (couldn't find it in a search). Recently had the clutch replaced in my 1999 solara, se, v6, 140k. When I got it back the clutch operates near the bottom of the pedal (near the floor). There is also occasional shudder / vibration when leaving. If someone gets in to drive it they often stall it out, until they get the feel of it. The mechanic says that because it is a hyd. system there is no adjustment to put the clutch action more in the mid range of the pedal (where most cars are). I need to know if anyone has heard / experienced the same thing, or is this guy bs'ing me. I don't see a lot of dis-assembly evidence, and I wish there was a positive way I could tell if the job was done, or did he just adjust the old one to give it some more life (shouldn't have went with low bidder). Thanks in advance for your help. -Dave

[mfox20]

Same symtoms here. Just replaced the clutch on our 1999 with 180K. Jerky at first with the bottom pedal but after a few dozen shifts it feels more normal. My wife (her car) swears that now her 4th gear rpms and overall horsepower feels different with the new clutch.

Michael

[jakdaddy]

Thanks for your reply. Come to find out these cars w/ standard transmissions aren't that common. When you say "different" does the car drive better or worse ? Did they replace resurface the flywheel ? Thanks again Dave

[Mister_Perkins]

If they didnt re-surface the flywheel before they installed the clutch, thats your problem.

[JohnGD]

The hydraulic system is self adjusting if everything is in spec. What kit did the mechanic use? I'd recommend either an Aisin (OEM) kit or Sachs kit for daily drivers. Yes the flywheel should be resurfaced with a new clutch. However over machining can cause release problems too.

Try a spindown test first. Run in neutral with the clutch engaged. Release the clutch and wait 10 seconds. And then shift into reverse. You should hear no clashing.

Bleed the clutch system. Use a low moisture activity fluid like Castrol GT LMA or Valvoline Synthetic.

Lastly maybe parts or installation problem? Dunno.

Originally Posted by jakdaddy

Hello, New to the forum, forgive me if this has been covered before (couldn't find it in a search). Recently had the clutch replaced in my 1999 solara, se, v6, 140k. When I got it back the clutch operates near the bottom of the pedal (near the floor). There is also occasional shudder / vibration when leaving. If someone gets in to drive it they often stall it out, until they get the feel of it. The mechanic says that because it is a hyd. system there is no adjustment to put the clutch action more in the mid range of the pedal (where most cars are). I need to know if anyone has heard / experienced the same thing, or is this guy bs'ing me. I don't see a lot of dis-assembly evidence, and I wish there was a positive way I could tell if the job was done, or did he just adjust the old one to give it some more life (shouldn't have went with low bidder). Thanks in advance for your help. -Dave