Clutch kit

MANTISSSS

MEMBER
1994 OPEL ASTRA
1.8L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
330,000 MILES

Hello, I own a Opel Astra F-CC hatchback 1.8i 66/90 KW/HP gasoline powered with manual transmission. Recently I've changed my clutch kit (pressure plate, clutch disk and pressure bearing clutch), I've bolted back my transmission back to the engine and wanted to check if it works. I want to mention that I didn't mounted back my CV axles into transmission (front-wheel drive) and as I start my engine to test the clutch I observe that I can put it into first and second gear with engine running without pressing the clutch pedal, and I've wanted to know that if it is a problem or is supposed to do like that without the CV axles? My first thought was that my new pressure plate was cracked or something brand new and that my clutch slips. If you could answer me fast I would appreciate that, so I don't put everything back together and have to tear everything apart again. Thanks in advance.

1 Reply

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

More then likely this is normal. The fact that there is no load on the transmission means that you don't have an any force on the clutch to cause it to stall or any other issue so pressing the clutch is not needed. The only reason you need to press the clutch is to separate the engine and transmission as they are spinning at the same rate but you are changing the gear ratio by changing gears so the force from the road would block the entry to another gear.

Here are some guides that help with this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/inner-workings-of-a-car-clutch

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-clutch

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/clutch-doesnt-work-sometimes-or-not-at-all

I would suggest installing the axles and test drive the vehicle. Clearly this is not the best if there is an issue as it may have to come back out but unfortunately there is not other way to test it.

Let me know if you have questions. Thanks