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From: delbene@homxa.UUCP (K.DELBENE)
Newsgroups: net.auto
Subject: MGB Clutch Problems
Message-ID: <990@homxa.UUCP>
Date: Wed, 3-Jul-85 10:33:51 EDT
Article-I.D.: homxa.990
Posted: Wed Jul  3 10:33:51 1985
Date-Received: Thu, 4-Jul-85 04:18:50 EDT
Organization: AT&T Bell Labs, Holmdel NJ
Lines: 30

I've got a '79 MGB that's developed clutch spin.  Since the car only has
23000 miles on it, I've got to assume that oil has gotten into the clutch
area from either the transmission or rear seal.  Having lots of demands 
on my time, I have a dilemma to face.  Do I change the clutch myself
or allow myself to be ripped off to the tune of $300+.  Hence, my questions:

   1)  Anybody have any experience with MGB clutches?  Do I really have
       to pull the engine?  Is it really easier to just pull the 
       engine and leave the transmission in place? (I've 
       changed a number of clutches in my days, so I'm relatively
       familiar with the generic operation).  Where's the best place
       to attach the tackle?  Am I better off renting a "cherry picker"
       to take the motor out?

   2)  I know the typical sources of oil/grease that cause clutch spin.
       Anybody had experience with such leaks etc. on MGBs or other
       such pieces of fine British craftmanship?  How bad are the seals
       to replace?  Which ones should I suspect?

   3)  Besides enduring the clutch spin (I happens when I punch it
       in a high gear), am I introducing any great risks in waiting
       ~1 month to do this job.  The reason I ask is that I've got a 
       new head that I'll be putting on next month, and it would be
       nice to do them at the same time.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

				Kurt D. Del Bene
				...!ihnp4!houxm!homxa!delbene