Pinpoint Test B: Clutch Related Vibrations
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- B1 CHECK FOR ENGINE COMPONENT GROUNDING
- With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to JACKING & 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?
- Yes : REPAIR any components as necessary.
- No : GO to B2.
- B2 CHECK FOR ACCESSORY DRIVE VIBRATIONS
- Ignition OFF.
- Remove the accessory drive belt and check for vibration.
- Start the engine.
- Does the vibration stop when the accessory drive belts are removed from the engine?
- Yes : REFER to ACCESSORY DRIVE - 2.5L -- FUSION & MILAN (EXCEPT HYBRID) article to diagnose the accessory drive belt components.
- No : INSTALL the accessory drive belt. GO to B3.
- B3 CHECK FOR RELEASE BEARING NOISE
- Start the engine.
- Press and hold the clutch pedal but do not disengage the clutch.
- Is a whirring, grating or grinding noise present only when the pedal is pushed?
- Yes : INSTALL a new clutch release bearing. REFER to CLUTCH -- FUSION & MILAN article.
- No : GO to B4.
- B4 INSPECT THE FLYWHEEL
- Remove the clutch disc and pressure plate. Refer to CLUTCH -- FUSION & MILAN 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 in this service information.
- Is the flywheel OK?
- Yes : GO to B5.
- No : TIGHTEN or INSTALL a new flywheel. Refer to the appropriate Manual Transmission, Clutch and Transfer Case article for the procedure.
- B5 CHECK FOR PRESSURE PLATE IMBALANCE
- Support the engine securely.
- Operate the engine with the transaxle removed.
- Is the vibration still present?
NOTE: Failure to support the engine correctly could result in damage to the vehicle.- Yes : REFER to NOISE, VIBRATION & HARSHNESS article to diagnose the engine vibration concern.
- No : INSTALL a new clutch pressure plate. REFER to CLUTCH -- FUSION & MILAN article.