I have an 89 F-superduty with a 7.3, 5 speed manual (4+od on the knob). My problem is that it seems that the clutch never fully disengages. there is a little slop in the pedal, but it has always been that way. It is at the point now, where i have to shut the truck off and put it into first gear, if i stop for any reason, or if i have to shift into nuetral. this causes the truck to lurch forward until it starts. does anyone know what this could be,need for a new clutch, throw out bearing, slave cylinder, ect. i use the my truck mostly on the weekends, and about twice every month, i tow my backhoe. with the trailer, it pulls about 17,000 pounds. Also if i need a clutch which is the best brand and type to buy? thanx for all your help.

John

Ford has service bulletin on 99 and up clutch master cylinders going out. Symptoms just like you describe. Mine did it at just about 60,000.

If it is the pressure plate South Bend seems to be the most popular brand. Have your CC ready, they go for about $900.

ZF tranny, hydro clutch. bleed it and check for any leaks against the firewall. sometimes my friends truck would melt the casing.

Check your clutch pedal bushings and grommets under the dash. These are really common for wearing out also have seen were the pushrod rides in the clutch pedal oblong the hole and cause excessive slop. More than likely that is were your problem is going to be.

Check and see if the firewall moves when you push in the clutch. Ford has 2 repair kits for firewall cracking avalable.