Rigid clutch

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allcarsnew007
Senior
Posts: 89
Joined: Wed Jan 08, 2020 4:10 pm

I own a 2008 Picanto SA with a 1.0L petrol engine. It has covered a distance of 200,000 km and is still in operation.
The clutch has been experiencing stiffness for some months now. Recently, the metal end of the clutch cable, which links to the clutch pedal, broke off as a result of the resistance applied by the pedal.
I will be acquiring a replacement clutch cable due to the failure of the current one. However, I suspect that this issue is only indicative of a more fundamental problem. Consequently, I plan to elevate the vehicle using a jack and attempt to address the underlying issue with the clutch.
Although the clutch has not shown any signs of slippage, lower power, or other issues, the only problem it has is a stiff pedal. Consequently, it is unclear if a new clutch is necessary or whether another component is responsible for the resistance that caused the cable to break.
Since the automobile is from 2008, I will be responsible for all the work, even though I have no prior experience with such a job.
Has anybody encountered a rigid clutch pedal on a Picanto? If so, do you have any recommendations for troubleshooting?
I am fully prepared to replace the clutch in its entirety if necessary, so any assistance would be much appreciated.
Martin_Smith76
Senior
Posts: 86
Joined: Wed Nov 11, 2020 9:40 pm

Complete all tasks, totaling 200,000 units. I can guarantee that everything is prepared and ready for use. šŸ˜Š

This task is not suitable for an inexperienced person. If you make a mistake, you will incur much higher costs.

View YouTube videos to determine whether it is suitable for you.

Best wishes
allcarsnew007
Senior
Posts: 89
Joined: Wed Jan 08, 2020 4:10 pm

Indeed, I have decided to proceed without hesitation, with the intention of acquiring knowledge along the process.
When you use the phrase "get it wrong," what are the possible risks or drawbacks (excuse the play on words)? Aside from the issue of misplacing screws and similar items, could you please inform me, if you are aware, about the factors that need caution? Is there a more complex process involved than just removing the old component and replacing it with the new one?
Martin_Smith76
Senior
Posts: 86
Joined: Wed Nov 11, 2020 9:40 pm

You will need to disassemble the drive shafts and detach the ball joints in order to get access.
And several other components are required to access the clutch.

Due to its compact size, manoeuvring the little automobile may be much more challenging, since the available area is very restricted.

Specific tools are required.
I would refrain from engaging in this task at now since it is a very unsatisfactory occupation.

Obtain several price estimates for the services of a mobile mechanic.
Neighbourhood automobile repair shop..Clearly not an authorised dealer.
Consider consulting a specialised brake and clutch expert, such as Brake Station.
godisgreat
Moderator
Posts: 108
Joined: Wed Jan 02, 2019 2:30 pm

Transferred from the "How To" section since it does not provide instructions on how to do a specific task.
A straightforward inquiry.
Bluewhaleeee
Moderator
Posts: 131
Joined: Wed Jun 08, 2022 2:40 pm

Performing clutches is a straightforward task..If you own a vehicle lift, a gearbox jack, air tools, and a clutch lining tool, you will be well-equipped for the task at hand. If you are lying on the ground or do not own any of the aforementioned items, it might be rather burdensome and need help. If you are encountering difficulties, you inadvertently damage objects and misplace belongings (particularly your composure). The floor may also get coated with gear oil, emitting an odour reminiscent to cat urine (I won't divulge how I acquired this knowledge!).
Samantha_Jones83
Senior
Posts: 79
Joined: Sun Mar 03, 2019 2:30 pm

Furthermore, it is important to note that a rigid clutch may be associated with:

System ventilation is the primary factor leading to a stiff clutch. Air ingress happens when air enters the system and experiences a different level of compression compared to the hydraulic fluid.
Fluid loss - the system should be inspected for the presence of leaks. Special emphasis should be placed on the location where the hose is connected to the component and the condition of the rubber hoses.
The dislodgement of the bearing from the clutch pressure plate may occur as a result of assembly faults. In order to determine the reason, it is essential to dismantle the box.
The wear of the thrust bearing indicates that the clutch has likely reached the end of its operational lifespan, necessitating the replacement of the complete clutch assembly.
Clutch disc wear is another factor contributing to system degradation. As the friction surface of the disc erodes, it encounters more resistance, resulting in a visible change in the action of the clutch pedal. The repair entails the replacement of the clutch assembly.
A hard clutch may be attributed to a clutch pump failure. In the event of this malfunction, the pump is replaced with a brand new one.
The pump piston is experiencing rubber leakage, however the pump itself is not failing. The rubber mounts are the source of the leaking. Typically, this kind of failure leads to the replacement of the clutch pump.
Improper installation of a component, such as the clutch, occurs when the technician fails to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines. The signs of a defective installation may become apparent immediately upon retrieving the automobile from the garage, while in other cases they may only manifest after driving several hundred miles. Frequently, it will be necessary to replace the components with new ones.
The gearbox shaft may experience insufficient lubrication or excessive lubrication, which may be caused by certain clutch kits that need lubrication of the clutch shaft. The determination of this need is made by the manufacturer. Prior to any assumptions, it is important to acknowledge that lubricating the shaft is not usually a given. If the manufacturer does not endorse the use of grease, but the technician insists on using it, there is a risk that the clutch shaft might get immobilised. It is important to always adhere to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Improper cable adjustment (on vehicles equipped with a cable-operated clutch) - it is important to adjust the clutch cable according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This exception does not hold true if the automobile have self-adjustment capabilities.
Clutch "paw" wear is another consequence of system deterioration. It is necessary to replace the clutch lever whenever the disc and pressure plate are changed.
Thomas_Green78
Senior
Posts: 94
Joined: Tue Feb 15, 2022 6:20 pm

An often encountered reason for the failure of the clutch cable in the Picanto is the point at which the cable traverses from the upper part of the pedal through the bulkhead.The cable has slowly eroded the metal, resulting in a rigid grip for many months. Eventually, it reaches a point where it malfunctions. Prioritise inspecting this component first, since the clutch itself can be in good condition.
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