Since Day 1 (two years ago) my FJC clutch had a slight shudder, 2-3 pulses, when accelerating gently from a standstill. It was most noticeable after sitting all night, less so after the first drive of the day.

A shadetree mechanic friend suggested I smooth out the clutch/pp surface by revving to 3,500 rpm or so and easing out the clutch in 2Hi, allowing some slip until fully engaged. So I went to the base of a steep hill and tried it. The 1GR had enough torque to accelerate smartly even in 2nd, I let my foot off the clutch pedal completely in about 1-2 sec and then the engine headed toward redline, never fully engaging the clutch, so I eased off the throttle until hooked up.

I noticed an improvement right away, so tried it again. And again. Altogether three times and the problem is 90% cured.

I resorted to this method b/c the FJ wouldn't duplicate the shudder at the dealership, of course. My dealer was willing to replace the clutch under warranty, but I really didn't want it opened up, possibly creating other issues.

So, good or bad advice from my friend, and any long-term effects to consider?

 

well.. your clutch life just got shorter big time. If the dealer was willing to replace it, then have them do it. I really dont think it would creat other issues, considering its still under warrenty the dealer would have to deal with it any ways.

 

X2...

 

if it is under warranty let the dealership do it. usually if they break something, it will be covered

 

i concure with vital. its warrenty work

 

?????? Your dealer was going to replace the clutch under warranty and as an alternative solution you decided to ride the hell out of it.

A: Give your head a shake.

B: Go slap your friend

C: Take your truck back to the dealer and see if they will still replace it under warranty.

nuff said.

 

Shoulda asked here first. My bud was convincing talking about smoothing out the high/low points and whatnot.

Now I'm worried that when the dealer gets inside they'll see signs of heat stress and claim abuse.

I have to say the "fix" worked. Too bad the patient's life was shortened.

 

Just be adamant that there was a problem with it from the get go. Regardless of what you've done to it since it was never right. Don't take any crap.

 

agreed