Clutch smooth when car off but not when started.

Joined
6 January 2013
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Pittsburgh, PA
I'm looking at an NSX just now...it has an aftermarket clutch. When the car is off it is perfectly smooth. But once the car is started it is no longer smooth through its range of motion. Is this normal /common? Never felt this on another car.
 
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interesting,I recently drove a 92 that had the same ratchety clutch feel when the car was running but smooth when off...this car was kinda neglected,so maybe it needs new fluid/possibly grunge in the master/slave....:confused:
 
I have a Comptech clutch in my NSX and no, it’s not normal.

If the clutch didn’t depress smoothly regardless whether the crankshaft was spinning or not, the problem would probably be a lack of grease between the clutch slave cylinder and the release fork. That can be remedied very quickly and easily. However, if the problem is only noticeable when the crankshaft is spinning, it’s something else. Most likely, the release bearing is on its way out, the release bearing guide has issues, or something wasn’t greased properly during installation.

If the problem is the release bearing, you can either buy a new pressure plate from Comptech or if you have an experienced mechanic with access to a machine shop, he could install a new bearing for you. I believe Comptech uses Sachs pressure plates in their clutches and I know they weld modified OEM NSX release bearings into their pressure plates. Your mechanic could potentially cut the old release bearing out of your existing pressure plate, cut a groove into a new OEM release bearing, and weld that into your pressure plate. While he is at it, I’ve heard it’s good to replace the release bearing guide as insurance and of course, he should grease everything as specified in the Service Manual during reassembly.

In any case, it will take money to resolve. Unfortunately.
 
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