Well stated, Andy. That was pretty much my point (although not as well
articulated) in the first place. Anytime the clutch is depressed, there
is pressure on the thrust washers. Although they might have better
lubrication after the car is running. I hadn't even thought of the
gearbox issue. I guess it proves that there is always going to be some
sacrifice no matter what you do. Such is the nature of mechanical
things.
Joe
Andrew Mace wrote:
>
> Joe Curry wrote:
> >
> > > In theory, the mentioned wear would be from the force of the crank being
> > > pushed against the thrust washer. Although, I think the problem is
> > > minimal.
> >
> On Thu, 17 Jun 1999, Michael Burdick wrote:
>
> > Hi Joe - let me respectfully say "I'm not so sure about that". The force
> > pushing against the thrust washers when the clutch is disengaged is not
> > insignificant (the clutch pedal is a pretty good lever arm), and the
> > application of this force very often occurs after the oil has had plenty
> > of time to drain back into the pan. A high load with minimal lubrication
> > could very well lead to premature wear....
>
> True, but isn't that same relative lack of lubrication true throughout the
> engine, i.e., bearings, cylinder walls/rings, etc.? Meanwhile, the age-old
> philosophy of depressing the clutch was to eliminate the drag of the
> gearbox, right? So sacrifice one part to save another.
>
> Me? I suspect I'd worry more about holding the clutch in all the time at
> red lights and stop signs (which I admit I still do all the time for other
> safety-related and long-ingrained-in-me-by-dad-and/or-safety-experts) and
> the wear that causes! :-)
>
> --Andy
--
"If you can't excel with talent, triumph with effort."
-- Dave Weinbaum in National Enquirer
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