3000M - clutch stuck

[andyvg]

Started up my car after it's winter pause this weekend and whilst the clutch pedal moves as usual I can't select a gear when the engine is running, goes into gear ok when the engine is stopped.

Am guessing that the clutch has stuck - are there any special tricks to free it off (other than stick it in 4th gear and start it up!)

Will it need replacing (as a precaution) and is there anything else that could be causing a problem before I go ragging it up the road!

Car is a '76 3000 with an overdrive box.

thanks!

[280i]

This happened to my Caterham a few times. Just put the car in neutral start it and let it worm up. Shut the car off and put it into 2nd gear and start it, car is light and should be able to chug to life. Drive it a bit in 2nd gear while pressing on the clutch. It should break free after a few min of driving. Then put a dehumidifier in your garage next winter so it will not happen again. there is no need to take it apart, there is just a bit of rust holding the clutch to the flywheel.

[280i]

This happened to my Caterham a few times. Just put the car in neutral start it and let it worm up. Shut the car off and put it into 2nd gear and start it, car is light and should be able to chug to life. Drive it a bit in 2nd gear while pressing on the clutch. It should break free after a few min of driving. Then put a dehumidifier in your garage next winter so it will not happen again. there is no need to take it apart, there is just a bit of rust holding the clutch to the flywheel.

[andyvg]

Thanks chaps, Adrian YHM.

[whitewolf]

I've had this happen to me,
Right or wrong, I started it in gear and came free.

[andyvg]

just to bring this full circle.

I managed to free it off with information Adrian@ supplied me - avoids the chance of stressing the transmission or running anyone over!

if anyone needs the method either PM Adrian or myself.

thanks.

[phillpot]

andyvg said:

if anyone needs the method either PM Adrian or myself.

Is it too complicated to just tell on here?

[phillpot]

Makes sense, thanks Adrian.