Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

Doz · Posted: Mon May 28, 2012 10:34 am Post subject: 1934 Austin 10/4 clutch

Having got the engine and transmission out of my 1934 Austin 10 2-seater, I'm now trying to take it apart for refurbishment. This is the oldest engine and box I've ever worked on, and things are all just a bit different to what I'm used to! Can anyone give me any pointers on dismantling the clutch and removing the flywheel? It's the older pattern with the release bearing oiler tube and the linings rivetted to the flywheel and the pressure plate. I removed the outer ring of bolts that appear to hold the cover to the flywheel and naively thought that would be enough to remove the cover/pressure plate etc, but it's still solid so I'm not sure whether I've missed something, or whether it's just rusted together. Any pointers greatly appreciated!

Doz · Posted: Wed May 30, 2012 1:51 pm Post subject:

Well I thought it was a sensible question... Laughing

Kelsham · Posted: Wed May 30, 2012 2:16 pm Post subject:

Probably no replies because no one knows the answer. A picture could help. I seem to recall some clutch assemblies had dowels to aid their alignment. It might be stuck on a dowel?

No special knowledge of your car, but early cars usually had the flywheel held onto a taper with a large nut.

Hope this is some encouragement.

Kels.

Doz · Posted: Wed May 30, 2012 2:26 pm Post subject:

Thanks - it wasn't a criticism, merely at attempt at humour. Smile

To be honest it's mainly the clutch cover I'm bothered about, the flywheel I shall worry about when I get to it later. I'm reaching the conclusion that the cover is stuck/rusted to the flywheel as I can't find anything else anywhere, I'll perhaps try a few gentle taps with the Swindon Micrometer...

Rick · Site Admin Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22439 Location: UK

From memory I think Pitmans did a small maintenance book that covered the 10/4, might be worth tracking down a copy? I've not had mine apart so can't really advise sorry!

(edit: one on ebay 99p start - item 270984592532)

RJ
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Doz · Posted: Wed May 30, 2012 2:48 pm Post subject:

Thanks Rick, I have the Pitmans and Cassell books but unfortunately neither go any further than normal adjustment when it comes to clutch. It appears to be very similar to the Austin 7 clutch of the same period and I know a few people with those, I'll try and have a word with one of them. Failing that I'm sure someone at the ATDC will know.

pigtin · Joined: 23 Nov 2007 Posts: 1879 Location: Herne Bay

I used to have one of that type of clutch on my 10/4. I can only remember having to undo the bolts and I think there were a couple of pegs. The one's that are jammed solid are the only ones of that type that don't slip, so make sure you fit uprated springs or your life may be made a misery.
I have fitted the later one to my 10/4 and can even tow with it.

If you still have problems in a weeks time when I get back off hols' I will see if I still have my old one.
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Due to the onset of my mid eighties I'm no longer sprightly and rarely seen in my Austin special. I have written a book though. https://amzn.eu/d/7rwRRqL

Doz · Posted: Wed May 30, 2012 8:33 pm Post subject:

Thanks - I had heard that they're not great! I have another engine and box, I've not looked yet but if that has the later clutch I'll use that one when I get around to rebuilding it. Otherwise it'll be a new set of stronger springs. In the meanwhile I'm going to try a little gentle (yes, really) persuasion... Smile

Doz · Posted: Mon Jun 04, 2012 11:38 pm Post subject:

'Tis done, it was merely the effects of 78 years-worth of crud sticking it together. Smile