Pinpoint Test E: Clutch Related Vibrations

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

E1 CHECK FOR ENGINE COMPONENT GROUNDING
- With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to JACKING AND LIFTING article.
- Check the engine mount interlocks for grounding.
- Check for the exhaust manifold or other engine components grounding on the body or frame.
- Is there evidence of grounding on the body or frame?
1. YES : REPAIR any components as necessary.
2. NO : Go to E2.
E2 CHECK FOR ACCESSORY DRIVE VIBRATIONS
- Remove the accessory drive belt and check for vibration.
- Does the vibration stop when the accessory drive belts are removed from the engine?
1. YES : REFER to ACCESSORY DRIVE - 2.3L article to diagnose the accessory drive belt components.
2. NO : Go to E3.
E3 CHECK FOR RELEASE BEARING NOISE
- Key in START position.
- Press and hold the clutch pedal.
- Is a whirring, grating or grinding noise present only when the pedal is pushed?
1. YES : INSTALL a new clutch slave cylinder. REFER to CLUTCH CONTROLS article.
2. NO : Go to E4.
E4 INSPECT THE FLYWHEEL
- Remove the transaxle. Refer to MANUAL TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION article.
- Inspect for loose flywheel bolts.
- Check for an excessively burnt or severely cracked contact surface.
- Inspect the flywheel runout. Refer to Flywheel Runout Check .
- Is the flywheel OK?
1. YES : Go to E5.
2. NO : TIGHTEN, RESURFACE or INSTALL a new flywheel. REFER to ENGINE - 2.3L article.
E5 CHECK FOR PRESSURE PLATE IMBALANCE
- Support the engine securely.
- Operate the engine with the transaxle removed.
- Is the vibration still present?
1. YES : REFER to NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS article to diagnose the engine vibration concern.
2. NO : INSTALL a new clutch pressure plate. REFER to CLUTCH article.