clutch shudder 351 clev ... new process box

[slideman]

This is probably a common problem with a simple answer BUT I have a controllable shudder in reverse going up hill and I would like to know what the problem might be > I have checked the engine mounts .. seem ok the gearbox mount looks a bit greasy so I cant tell if its ok or not ...... I am not even sur if the box mouint is correct I heard that the engine must be aligne correctly in the engine mounts and perches .. this also seems ok ............... Would installing a heavy duty clutch help ......... the clutch is not greasy and it measures 8mm ...... any ideas Thanks ... Oh ITs a 77 short wheel base 351 cleveland new process gearbox thanks

[kknip]

Maybe check the bushings on the Z bar on the engine and frame.That is the linkage going to the clutch,it has teflon bushings on the engine side and the frame side,they get worn out and will cause the bar to make a shudder.I know my dads truck would do it bad in first gear.

[slideman]

Hi knip I wasnt sure what you meant by zbar ... Is that the bar which braces th engine to the chassis my truck did not have one when I got it ... should it have had one ? its a 1975 If so , I think you 've found my problem

[ICEMAN6166]

the z-bar is the pivoting piece of the linkage and is attached to the engine block and frame,the pieces it pivots on have nylon balls that wear out after a while and make its movement sloppy.
not sure what the 8mm applies to?

[fordman]

possibly glazed clutch componets. if it doesn't have oil on it.

[jor]

Here's a couple of photos of the z-bar deal clutch linkage. I got one of them from someone here on the group (I guess this would be an anonymous attribution!). Anyhow, if your clutch disc and pressure plate look clean and you have that much material remaining on your clutch, I think I would look at a broken spring on the clutch disc or a loose mount on the back of the transmission. My 67 had one of the bolts sheared off and it would shake a bit. Good luck.
jor