What is a clutch cable?
The clutch cable connects the clutch pedal to the clutch fork. Using two levers and a cable, pressing the clutch becomes almost effortless in most applications.
How does the clutch cable work?
The clutch pedal is a lever that increases the amount of force you apply. When the clutch cable is pulled by the clutch pedal, the other end pulls on the clutch fork, which disengages the clutch. When the clutch pedal is released, the clutch pulls the cable tight, providing the force felt when pressing the clutch.
An incorrectly adjusted or faulty clutch cable can make the clutch pedal hard to depress, even after a clutch replacement.
What are the symptoms related to a bad clutch cable?
When the
clutch cable fails, the pedal will fall to the floor, and it will be impossible to use the vehicle. Attempting to enter any gear will result in grinding, and if successful the vehicle will lurch forward and stall.
Can I drive with a clutch cable problem?
Driving a vehicle with a broken clutch cable is only possible if the transmission is shifted improperly, and push-started at every stop. While this may save a few dollars on wrecker services, it can cost the replacement of the manual transmission. It is better to have the vehicle towed, than risk further damage.
How often do clutch cables need to be replaced?
Clutch cables are simple, require no maintenance, and fail after long periods of use. Most vehicle's are well past the 100,000 mile mark before the clutch cable needs attention, and most manual transmission vehicle's with over 175,000 miles have had this cable replaced.
How are clutch cable issues diagnosed?
Clutch cable failure is evident after a technician views the clutch fork and clutch pedal. If the clutch fork requires proper force to press, and the clutch pedal is limp, the disconnect is certainly the attachment points for the clutch cable or a broken clutch cable.
How is a clutch cable replaced?
Replacing the clutch cable requires the technician to work underneath the dashboard to replace one end of the clutch cable, and the other end is attached to the clutch fork on the side of the transmission. The clutch cable will then be adjusted, and the vehicle test-driven to confirm the repair.
What to look out for when dealing with clutch cable issues
The clutch fork easily falls off of many transmissions when the clutch cable is removed. If the clutch fork is not properly installed, the clutch will not function properly, and damage may result to the clutch throw out bearing.
Can I replace the clutch cable myself?
This is a very simple task that can be completed by most DIYers, however, be ready to work under the dashboard, as this can be slightly difficult.
