S4 Clutch Issue

[Gordon]

My S4 is undergoing a complete refurb, it was started 3 weeks ago and since then its had a new brake cylinder and servo. Yesterday it was discovered the clutch is not disengaging, the pedal works perfectly and their is pressure, but the clutch will not operate to let the car go into gear! Any suggestions?

[lotusfan]

Hi Gordon

Can you see the clutch lever moving when you press the clutch pedal?

Is the adjustment correct as per the WSM?

How long ago was the engine mated to the gearbox? It may be that the clutch plate has rusted to the flywheel.

[2tmike]

I had a similar issue when mine was in the paint shop for a number of weeks, as previously suggested the clutch plate was stuck to the flywheel and needed to be shocked free, after that perfectly fine.

[661]

Sounds like the clutch plate is stuck on the flywheel.
Google methods to remove. They are a bugger

[rcfurse]

When my clutch sticks to the flywheel I do the following. Line the car up with the exit/street. Start the car in neutral and let it warm up properly. Switch off. Stick it in first and then start it on the starter and let it take off. Go down the road and rev and brake while operating the clutch. It will usually break free fairly quickly.

[mbell]

This is pretty common issue and quite a few methods mentioned on the forums to free it up.

My car had been layed up for possibly over 20 years and had stuck clutch plate. I used the multiple heat cycles route and then with warm engine I:
- put it in forth
- applied hand brake and foot brake
- depressed clutch
- Used the starter to spin the engine

After a couple of attempts (car has pre engage starter) the clutch freed.