Clutch overheating?

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by joelykool, Feb 6, 2015.

  1. joelykool

    joelykool Bobtail Member

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    Jun 26, 2009
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    Just wondering if Im doing anything wrong. Got a glider truck with 100k on it. Im not sure how new everything is as its not a Harrison or fitzgerald...but heres the deal. Im doing all local loads, roughly 400 miles a day and hook up to 8 trailers per day and back them in tight spots. This happened to me twice today. After backing and pulling front a lot and riding the clutch to get the trailer in a tight spot, after I go to go forward and say grab 3rd gear, it does nothing. No major jerking or banging, just doesn't go. Sometimes I let the clutch out 3 times or so, til it actually engages and grabs. Is it possible to overheat the clutch when backing in trailers with no throttle? How else am I supposed to back trailers in tight spots all day long? Just wondering what you guys have to say. Im not all that experienced and trying to give this my best shot. Thanks for all the help!
     
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  3. wore out

    wore out Numbered Classic

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    Jun 5, 2013
    CHASIN THE DEVIL'S HERD
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    Usually anytime the disc's are hot it's accompanied by a very unmistakeable smell.
     
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  4. Heavyd

    Heavyd Road Train Member

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    Feb 4, 2009
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    Yep, smell is unmistakable. Have the clutch adjustment checked.
     
  5. joelykool

    joelykool Bobtail Member

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    Jun 26, 2009
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    Yea, I did smell something as well. What im wanting to know is my clutch pretty much shot and how can I better avoid this? I only worked 2 days doing this job...I pulled the empty trailer home tonight and was fine but I haven't pulled a loaded trailer yet after the last time it slipped which was the worst time yet.
     
  6. wore out

    wore out Numbered Classic

    15,340
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    Jun 5, 2013
    CHASIN THE DEVIL'S HERD
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    It's possible to be shot already but possible to be saved. First thing as heavyd said make sure it's adjusted properly. If so yea it's shot. If you replace it make sure the shop has the flywheel turned. Also I haven't had much luck with the reman clutches from truck pro. Sorry forgot the name brand. I have found a new Eaton easy pedal to be priced right and never had any issues with one after install. Of course those are options you will have to weigh out for yourself if the time comes.
     
  7. Ringo1

    Ringo1 Light Load Member

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    Apr 20, 2014
    South Carolina
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    Yeah, unfortunately the clutch is shot. Had the same issue bout 10 years ago and it came to be the pressure plate was bad, same exact problems that you describe. If you have the resources get it replaced now on your terms, not while under a load and stranded.
     
  8. 201

    201 Road Train Member

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    Apr 16, 2014
    high plains colorado
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    Hi joelykool, sounds like something is hanging up in the clutch. I've seen worn input shafts on the trans that caused the clutch to get stuck, that was kind of extreme though. Is the linkage or if it's a cable binding? Have someone work the clutch while you look at the throw out arm ( part that sticks out of the bell housing). On older trucks, there was an inspection cover on the bell housing to grease the throw out bearing, you can observe the clutch action from there. If that's working ok, looks like she's gotta come out.
     
  9. joelykool

    joelykool Bobtail Member

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    Jun 26, 2009
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    Yea ok guys, thanks for the advice. I tried adjusting the clutch but it wasn't too bad. ill look into replacing the clutch!
     
  10. 04 LowMax

    04 LowMax Medium Load Member

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    Feb 3, 2013
    Alberta
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    Joel when you say you "tried" adjusting the clutch that doesn't sound like you exactly are sure what you are supposed to be doing. I would hate to see you have to go through all the hassle and expense of changing it out, if it's simply not adjusted properly. There are 2 adjustments that come into play, for one you lay on your back under the truck and take off the little rectangular plate that has 4 (or maybe just 2) little bolts holding it on. That adjustment is made up inside of the bell housing, and is a very important one. I know how to do mine, but I better let wore out or one of the mechanical guys explain it. After that one is correct, then you set the free play on the pedal. If you're not real sure about doing these, it would be time and a few $ well spent to get a decent mechanic to set it up for you. Tryin to help you with my 2 cents worth. :) There are some very good detailed explanations on this forum also on setting up clutches, just have to search.
     
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