Need some clutch explanation

[zman111]

So I'm not very mechanically inclined so I need all the help I can get. I have an '88 gl. My clutch has never slipped except a couple of times in first but it would still be in gear. Yesterday I was driving and the clutch pedal went almost all the way to the floor. I could barely change gears and had to pull over turn the car off, put it in first and drive it home like that. I was able to change the gears some of the time, but mostly not. So is it my cable or my whole clutch or what? Thanks for any input. I searched around but it almost seemed like this question was actually too broad rather than too specific. You guys are amazing on here. Thanks.

[subiemech85]

not being able to shift is due to adjuster nut backed off almost all the way to the end

 

to adjust, pull out slack and tighten finger loose until it is where you want it

 

 

 

 

 

slipping is clutch

[Gloyale]

It could be that the cable is fraying and stretching as more strands let go. It will break very soon.

 

 

Also slipping while driving would mean a worn clutch disc.

[Durania]

Remember that your best bet for a clutch cable is not with a parts store but with your Subaru parts counter.

[GeneralDisorder]

Yep - clutch cable about to snap.

 

GD

[MilesFox]

if not the cable, maybe the pressure pate is worn out. with a worn pressure plate the clutch will drag, the gears will be sticky, and you would have to tighten the cable too much

 

imagina one of those toys that looks like a ha;f ball that you push the middle inside out, and a fre seconds later it pops out and jums in the air. this is similar to how the clutch pressure plate disengages, when the middle is pressed in, the outer pops away from the clutch, and vice versa

[zman111]

Thanks for the input. I had a guy take the clutch cable out (after not seeing any fraying with it still in) and said it looked fine. So I think I'm going to replace the clutch. Its alright though the car almost has 200,000 miles on it so its about that time, as far as I know, to get a new one anyway. The car runs so well otherwise. Just a little leaking oil, about a quart every two tanks of gas. Thanks.

[MilesFox]

if you are having the clutch done, have your mechanic replace the seal on the breather plate behind the flywheel. 99% chance the rear main seal is fine, but usually when you have a leak at the rear of the engine, its 99% the breather plate.

 

your mechanic might have an easier time if he just pulls the motor out of the car. perfect opportunity to do front seals and tbelt/water pump.

 

off the shelf, the clutch set should go for 175, and the engine seals about 7-10 bucks apiece(a little more for the rear seal or valve covers). timing belt 30-60 bucks, and water pump 40-60 bucks