Possible Slipping Clutch?

darufone · Mar 15th, 2004, 04:06 PM

I have seen threads about slipping clutches and new clutches, but not quite the same as my question--if so, I apologize for the dupe effort.

When I pull off in first, the clutch feels tight (I can peel out easily), but when I change to second, third, etc, and let go of the clutch, it feels like it is slipping. I also have a new BMW (not trying to brag--I love my B13), and the clutch feels tight in every gear and does not feel like it is slipping in gears two and better.

Can someone tell me what could be the possible culprit when the clutch grabs tight in first, but not in second, third, etc? Thanks.

James · Mar 15th, 2004, 04:11 PM

I know it says ACT clutch but what type of material is it made of?

Did you put it in yourself?

darufone · Mar 15th, 2004, 04:16 PM

I'm sorry, I forgot to mention, I did not put in the ACT clutch, yet. It has been too cold here in NYC even though we had some nice days. I plan to start the installations when we get consistent warm weather. I just picked up the Sentra at the end of December and I am stocking up the parts. With all of that said, I am still riding the clutch that was in the car (I have no idea what type of clutch-probably stock).

darufone · Mar 15th, 2004, 04:17 PM

Oh yeah, the ACT clutch kit contains hd pp w/street disc.

James · Mar 15th, 2004, 04:26 PM

well I don't know what kind of clutch is in there but my JWT stage 2 has a lot of chatter in 2-3-4-5 but grabs really really well in 1st so that may be all it is... since you're swapping it out anyways maybe you should just not do so many burnouts until then!

NismoSentra13 · Mar 17th, 2004, 12:08 PM

I haven't heard much about ACT racing clutches but I recently put a Centerforce Dual Friction clutch in my car. It grips awsomely and does have chatter in 1st gear. But, you are wondering what could be wrong with your clutch slipping. Here are some possibilities:
1. Rear main seal could be leaking onto the face of the clutch causing it to slip.
2. The disc is worn and needs to be replaced
3.If you have a cable driven clutch, the cable might be too tight and rides.
Usually you can adjust the cable with a slipping clutch to get you by until you get your new clutch installed. You need a 10mm wrench and a pair of vice grips to hold the cable and twist the nut. You want to have about 1/2 inch play that way it doesn't hold the throwout bearing against the pressure plate.
A word of advice. When you are driving, you should always let your foot all the way off the clutch and put it on the floor that way you don't ride the clutch. I made myself learn this way and it has help tremendously. Hope that helps out.