Truck clutch replacement and repair

Clutch work on manual transmission trucks, done with the transmission out and everything behind the clutch checked while it is.

A heavy truck clutch is not a quick job: the transmission has to come out to reach it. That is exactly why we treat a clutch replacement as a chance to check everything else in that space, so the truck is not back in a month for a part that was sitting right next to the one we changed.

When a clutch needs attention

• It slips under load or on a grade, and the engine revs without the truck picking up
• Pedal free play has disappeared, or the pedal feels different from one day to the next
• Gears grind going into first or reverse from a stop, which often points at the clutch brake
• A squeal or a growl with the pedal down, typical of a failing release bearing
• A shudder pulling away with a load

What a clutch job here includes

• New clutch pack, matched to the engine torque and the transmission
• Release bearing (throw out bearing) replacement
• Clutch brake inspection and replacement
• Flywheel resurfacing, or replacement when it is past the limit
• Transmission input shaft check for wear on the splines and the bearing surface
• A look at the engine rear main seal, because an oil leak from there will ruin the new clutch
• Linkage or air assist adjustment so the pedal free play is right on the way out

Makes we see most

Clutches behind Eaton Fuller, Spicer, Meritor (Rockwell) and Mack transmissions make up most of this work, plus the medium duty manuals in box trucks. Trucks with an Allison or another automatic have no clutch to wear, so for those see transmission repair.

Buying the clutch yourself?

If you only need the parts, truckclutchorlando.com covers heavy truck clutch kits and components.