Cannot adjust a Kwik-Adjust clutch, it is stuck!

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by ichudov, Oct 22, 2014.

  1. ichudov

    ichudov Heavy Load Member

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    We have a 2000 Freightliner FLD with a Kwik-adjust clutch.

    The problem we are having is that the clutch stop is not working. So we started looking.

    Upon inspection, we found that the throwout bearing does not contact the clutch brake even if the clutch pedal is pushed to the metal.

    We tried to adjust the clutch, which has a special Kwik-Adjust clutch adjustment system.

    Pushed the nut in as instructed, it does engage the inner ring gear when pushed in, however we were unable to turn it.

    Any idea why? Thanks!
     
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  3. bjytech

    bjytech Light Load Member

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    Are you having someone hold the clutch pedal to the floor when you are trying to adjust it? No mention of it in your post so I thought it was worth mentioning. Sometime the adjusters can get pretty froze up as well.
     
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  4. ichudov

    ichudov Heavy Load Member

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    We did not hold the pedal. Now I feel like a total idiot. Thanks
     
  5. Superhauler

    Superhauler TEACHER OF MEN

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    as the famous comedian said----- HERE'S YOUR SIGN!
     
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  6. ichudov

    ichudov Heavy Load Member

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    OK, thanks. With the clutch pedal pushed in, the clutch adjusts.

    The sad news, however, is that the clutch is worn paper-thin, and will need to be replaced.
     
  7. StrongArm

    StrongArm Light Load Member

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    New York, NY
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    Did that one time when I was adjusting the clutch by myself. I use a plank or 2x4 of a broken pallet and shim it until its floored.
    This one time I was rushing to adjust it before I pull out for the day, I tried to turn it and freaked out, thinking that there was no adjustment left in it. I then realized that the pedal wasn't floored. That was a relief.
     
    ichudov Thanks this.
  8. tmslogistics

    tmslogistics Light Load Member

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    So if I follow all of the procedure and it still won't adjust, is my clutch gone??
     
  9. tony97905

    tony97905 Road Train Member

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    Adjust pressure plate ring until you have approximately 1/2" between throw-out bearing and clutch brake. Next, you will need to adjust the linkage to obtain correct free travel. BUT, before you do anything verify cab ride height because it affects your clutch linkage geometry and make sure ALL the Heim joints on the linkage are good and not worn out, this too will affect adjustment. Ideally if a clutch is adjusted correctly at time of install you should only have to adjust the pressure plate to obtain free travel and in turn will move the throw-out bearing within spec in regards to the clutch brake.

    Edit to add.....most 3/8" extension shafts are roughly .500" so that should get you in range for proper clearance between throw-out bearing and clutch brake.
     
    Mr.X Thanks this.
  10. Mr.X

    Mr.X Heavy Load Member

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    I think Tony is right on the money! Except I was taught to ensure there was no more than 9/16" tollerance between the surface on throwout bearing and the clutch brake friction (which on a high mileage truck is normally worn off and just shiny steel).
    I have always used a long bolt with 7/16" head on it to measure that tolerance. You should never have to adjust clutch linkage, unless something is broke or bent.
     
  11. tmslogistics

    tmslogistics Light Load Member

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    Gotcha. So if it will no longer adjust....is my clutch gone?

    Thank you,
    Toby
     
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