Most likely the throw out bearing is worn out, unless it's a Getrag transmission in which case the most likely culprit is the input bearing sleeve (been there, done that, had the same symptoms). On the Getrags, the T/O bearing slides on a sleeve that's an integral part of the input shaft bearing. Over time, the sleeve breaks off the input shaft bearing and allows the T/O bearing to sit off center on the shaft and wobble as the cluch pedal is pushed in. If that's your problem, you will need not only to remove the transmission from the engine, but you'll need to split the transmission case to replace the input shaft bearing. The other problem you'll run into is finding a new input bearing...the supply for them is just about exhausted (although Rodney Dickman is working on a solution but it's several months away from being available).
Here's couple pics of what I mean:
Although the LH bearing in the above photo isn't exactly a Getrag input shaft bearing, it shows more or less what the RH bearing (which is a failed Getrag input shaft bearing) is supposed to look like.
You'll be lucky if you get a "long term" result. Since the T/O bearing is off center when it contacts the pressure plate fingers, you risk having the T/O bearing, input bearing, or clutch fingers fail catastrophically. By that, I mean they'll come apart inside the bell housing and cause secondary damage. Better to address this soon.
You'll be lucky if you get a "long term" result. Since the T/O bearing is off center when it contacts the pressure plate fingers, you risk having the T/O bearing, input bearing, or clutch fingers fail catastrophically. By that, I mean they'll come apart inside the bell housing and cause secondary damage. Better to address this soon.
+1 on that.
Got lucky on my last one - I figure I had about "1 mile left", It pretty much fell apart when I pulled the trans and barely "touched it". I guess you never can tell when it's going to let loose but - better not to risk it - it's nasty.
Before you start taking anything apart though, I'd suggest you find the input shaft bearing first. Nobody I'm aware of sells them separately, though several online companies advertise the complete transmission rebuild kit (less synchros) which includes the bearing among other parts. The kit costs in the neighborhood of $275. Use the search words "Getrag 282 Rebuild Kit" or use the kit part number BK234. Here's what's included in the kit:
Once you get the transmission out of the car, there are several excellent write ups here on PFF by members who have split the case... here's one of them: www.fiero.nl/forum/Archives...120111-2-109502.html I used that thread to replace the input shaft bearing on a customer's Getrag about a year ago and found it invaluable.
Seeing this has now got me worried.. I have a similar problem it seems like.. It sounds like a rubbing tap noise when the clutch is fully depressed maybe pushed too far in??.. If I let out of the clutch just a hair it goes away and I can still select gears? is that a similar problem?
Edit: Btw Rodney Dickman should be coming out with a version of the input Bearing soon? ------------------ 1988 Pontiac Fiero Gt (fully optioned, factory leather, 5-speed, CJB T-Tops: Black w/ gray interior and blk wheels) 1992 GMC Typhoon #0203 1971Chevorlet Corvette 454cu/ LS5/ 4-speed/ convertible 1993 BMW 850 Ci 6-speed V-12[font=Arial][/font]
[This message has been edited by gmctyphoon1992 (edited 06-01-2012).]
Since the T/O bearing is off center when it contacts the pressure plate fingers, you risk having the T/O bearing, input bearing, or clutch fingers fail catastrophically. By that, I mean they'll come apart inside the bell housing and cause secondary damage. Better to address this soon.
