My 87 NA always had some "bouncing" when engaging the clutch at take off and shifting to second. Otherwise the clutch has been fine with no slipping. I assumed this was worn hydraulics and planned to replace the cylinders soon.

I put new struts and lowering springs on my 7 over the weekend, moving the 7 several times without any problems. When I started the car to leave, the clutch made a loud whining/grinding noise (like a throw out bearing failure) when fully depressed. The head lights dimmed every time the clutch was depressed. Most of the electronics (sunroof, radio, etc) in 7 stopped working and the brake light came on. The RPMs also increased when the clutch was depressed. This continued for the 80 mile trip home.

When I shut the car off and restarted it shuffle the cars in my driveway, the problem went away. I checked the car again today by driving it around the block and everything seemed fine (the electronics worked and brake light was off).

Why would a clutch problem start and stop so suddenly (particularly when the car was turned on and off)? Why would it cause problems with my electronics? Any idea what would cause this? Anything I should check before taking the clutch out for a look-see and/or replacement? WTF?????

 

You guessed it – the release bearing.
I suspect it got hot enough to soften its grease & re-lube itself (for now).
Plan on dropping the tranny and replacing the bearing real soon..

While you under there - check the engine & tranny mounts..

 

Thanks. Not what I wanted to hear, but at least I know what I have to do. Might as well get the clutch while I'm at it.

I spend more time fixing this car than driving it. (I know I'm not the only one )