Clutch judder

I'm new to the Alvis marque, and am beginning to find my way around a recently acquired 1937 4.3. One thing that needs sorting is clutch judder. However this only occurs when changing down, and not when starting off from standstill, or changing up. I'm assuming it's a question of clutch replacement, but thought I'd mention it here before stripping down, in case there's something else which might be a factor. Posted by Skodajag 19/10/2015 14:34:58

I am also quite new (almost 12months with my 4.3).  Before removing the engine, I would look at the engine mounts. Not sure if there are any cable steadies but they also may need adjustment.  I think there is a way of seeing how worn the fiction plate is via the angle of the release bearing/arm is however I am unsure whats good vs worn.   Chris Posted by chhym 20/10/2015 12:51:25

Thanks Chris. you mention about removing engine .. Am I wrong in thinking - hoping- the clutch is accessible from inside the car?! Posted by Skodajag 22/10/2015 14:47:28

Hi Skodajag, I recommend phoning Brian Chrimes as he has extensive Alvis experience and is very apporoachable and helpful. I will get a message to him via facebook for him to drop in here. Posted by paddysteel7 25/10/2015 01:46:46

Both companies which have quoted for the clutch replacement have quoted for engine removal so I am assuming its an engine out job.  Chris Posted by chhym 26/10/2015 18:04:11

Just seen a comment that clutch dragging is more evident when changing down the box which would indicate poor adjustment or stretched cable a possibility. If you dont have any slip and it pulls away smooth then I would not change it untill you have checked the cable properly ie remove and measure the inner and outer cable lengths and compare to new one. There may be other things to check such as pedal box. Posted by paddysteel7 28/10/2015 00:31:42

Well, I found that the gearbox mountings were shot and the box was moving under torque. Replaced all the mountings, and one of the flexible couplings on the drive  between engine and gearbox and.....the problem remains! To be fair the renewed g/box mountings improved things and now, if I double declutch when changing down I can eliminate the shudder. A mystery though... Posted by Skodajag 26/01/2016 16:09:03

Is it possible to lubricate the clutch shaft? It's probably bone dry and that won't help. Posted by Angus D'Arcy-Drake 27/01/2016 10:05:12

Hi Skodajag Just thought you could try asking Mike Baker as he has 2 4.3 s Posted by paddysteel7 27/12/2016 22:42:16