MTFCA Forum

So I've been doing some more reading about clutch fingers. When I put the transmission together I adjusted the clutch fingers so that the clutch spring (I used a new one) was 2 inches all the way around. Now I learn that there is also a 3/4 inch measurement taken under the clutch spring as well. Would this be 3/4 if the spring is at 2 inches?

Robert, as far as I know, the 2" measurement is used as a guide to test the clutch spring. Compressed to 2," it should read a certain amount of pressure. The 2" measurement is not applicable to the clutch finger adjustment. They are adjusted so that the gap between the selector ring and he rear face of the drum hub is set at 13/16". The dealers have a tool to set this adjustment. I made mine by welding a wire handle to a modern Ford wheel nut which just happens to measure 13/16".
Others may have further suggestions.

Allan from down under.

Sorry I got the distance wrong. Should be 13/16. Thanks Allen. The 2 inch measurement was achieved by adjusting the fingers so the spring was 2 inches all the way around. So by doing this will that make it 13/16 under the spring? I did see the tool that they sell.

Yes, 2” equals 13/16” when installed in the transmission. Coincidentally, 2” is also the compression height when you measure
the spring tension as Allan noted.
Alan in Western Australia

Thanks to both Alan and Allan!!

I dont think the service manual references a 2" measurement, only 13/16.
clutch spring should show 90# @ 2" compression. The new springs typically show 100-110#.

The 2" measurement is an easier way to do it!

This is the 13/16 tool i use to adjust the clutch fingers.

This is the 13/16 tool i use to adjust the clutch fingers.

I inherited my Dad's 1924 T and have been driving it each summer for the last 15 years or so. I haven't done any engine or transmission work except for replacing the band linings. I have begun to notice a little clutch slipping when I shift to high with the throttle open. When I removed the transmission cover and checked the clutch fingers with the clutch engaged there was some free play in the fingers. I turned in the adjusting screws 1/2 turn, reassembled everything and test drove it today. It seems like there is less slipping now but still some. I plan to go back in and try another 1/2 turn in. My question is, should there be a certain amount of play in the fingers with the clutch engaged or should they be free of any play?
Thank you,
Steve

There should be “no amount of play” with clutch engaged (emergency lever forward). Its very important that all 3 fingers be equally adjusted. And that’s done with the clutch disengaged. Yeah, give ‘em all another 1/2 turn...

Tension pressure should be as even as possible. Were the finger/throw out bearing clearences set for the 13/16" dimension? This dimension is a starting point & readjusted depending on clutch grab. (ford service manual). For a more precise adjustment, cut a second perpendicular slot into each finger screw.(quarter turn adjustments) Also, for adjustment purposes, pull a little tension on the e brake to check the evenness of the finger looseness.

I am not sure that my Dad ever had the engine and transmission apart except the take shims out of a knocking rod. It has always ran alright for about 50 years, but after reading about adjusting the clutch I gave it a shot. I was surprised at the wiggle in the fingers when the hand brake was forward even after I did the first half turn in. The head of the adjusting screw is about flush with the surface of the finger. I will give them another half of a turn when I get a chance. Happy Easter! I'm going to give the grandkids a ride today.

There should not be any wiggle with hand brake forward. Are you sure clutch is fully disengaging? Check lever cam. Check the distance @ each of the 3 fingers.
(about 13/16" expected)

I think that the clutch disengages adequately because it doesn't creep forward.when warm.