Clutch replacement issues

KPERRY316

MEMBER
FORD ESCORT

Make and Model: Ford Escort GT
Year: 1991
Mileage: 88,000

Please Help! I replaced the clutch in my Escort and put eveything back together and bled the clutch system. After starting the car and depressing the clutch pedal, it won't go into gear. Furthermore, it won't start at all when you put it in gear first then turn the ignition key. I'm at my wits end. Please help!

Mike

1 Reply

CARUNDELL

MECHANIC
602 POSTS

Hey Mike,
First lets verify the clutch hydraulics, have someone depress the clutch pedal while you visually look at the slave plunger or clutch lever. It should move at least 1 1/2 to 2 inches! If not your bleed was unsuccessful. When you bleed those, don't bleed them like brakes. Don't allow the plunger to go all the way back when you bleed, stop before as they will tend to suck back in air because the pressure plate is pushing against it! If all is ok with the hydraulics then your going to have to (and I hate to say this!) Double check your work, on some vehicles, its too easy to put in the clutch disc backwards! Which is another possible cause of your problem! On the disc it will say "flywheel side or engine side" Let us know!

Chris