CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT
THINGS THAT WILL CAUSE A TRANSMISSION TO SHIFT POORLY
If your transmission is shifting poorly after installation, work through this list before assuming the trans is at fault.
Most shifting problems are caused by installation or ancillary component issues, not the transmission itself.
BENT OR WARPED CLUTCH DISC —
When installing the transmission, do not let it hang by the input shaft.
TRANSMISSION NOT BOLTED FLUSH TO THE ENGINE —
Make sure all bolts are in place and tight.
MISSING ALIGNMENT DOWELS BETWEEN ENGINE & TRANSMISSION —
Make sure both dowels are in place. Missing dowels cause mis-alignment and will damage the trans.
WARPED OR DAMAGED PRESSURE PLATE —
Inspect with a straight edge to ensure it is flat and not concave ("soup bowl shaped").
WARPED OR IMPROPERLY MACHINED FLYWHEEL —
Flywheel must be machined to the recommended height. The machine shop must true their cutters before cutting a stepped flywheel.
Stepped flywheels require the lead edge of the cutting stones to be square.
Always request the shop cut to the recommended offset. Click for more info.
WORN CLUTCH FORK —
Inspect the clutch fork for wear. A worn fork causes inconsistent release bearing travel.
PIVOT BALL NOT SHIMMED PROPERLY —
DSMs may require shimming of the pivot ball to correct clutch fork geometry.
Click for more info.
AIR IN THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM —
Bleed the clutch. We recommend replacing the stock clutch line with the aftermarket braided version.
IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED OR WORN CLUTCH PEDAL ASSEMBLY —
Inspect and adjust the pedal to the correct position. Click for more info.
MISMATCHED CLUTCH COMPONENTS —
Use a well-proven clutch kit. Mismatched pressure plates, discs, and flywheels cause erratic engagement.
WORN SHIFTER CABLE BUSHINGS —
Replace worn or damaged bushings. Polyurethane bushings are recommended over stock rubber.
MISMATCHED SHIFTER BASE, CABLES, OR SHIFTER LEVERS —
Check www.vfaq.com for DSM-specific compatibility details.
See also: Frequently Asked Questions |
Contact us with specific tech questions.
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