Hey guys, got a question for you. I've been searching and reading for hours and am about as confused as when I started... My '80 308 has developed a peculiar squeal. I start the car from cold and it's fine. Shift into reverse, first, or second and when the clutch is engaged (pedal out) it squeals, sounding like a fan belt would. Push the clutch pedal in and it stops almost immediately. Let it out again and it returns. If I keep driving, the squeal goes away eventually, but seems to be lasting longer each time. I was told this is a throwout bearing, but I thought that would only squeal when the clutch pedal is pushed in? Is a thrust bearing the same as a throwout bearing? Any thoughts would be appreciated.
A throw out bearing is in the bell housing with the clutch on the input shaft while the thrust bearing is inside the crankcase and positions the crankshaft in the main journals. I would start by checking the tranny fluid level. There are some bearings within the transfer case on the bell housing that perhaps could make noise if dry. From there perhaps a bearing that the input shaft rides in. I think you are destined to open it up for inspection. I suppose a sticking fork could be holding the throw out bearing against the backside of the clutch.
You mean there's supposed to be oil in the tranny?! Just kidding.😜 I'm thinking it's probably not coming from inside the transmission as it is so dependent on whether the clutch is engaged or not. Meaning, I can coast at 30mph with no noise. I like your idea of a sticking fork; fits with why the noise seems to disappear after a bit of driving maybe. Won't get a chance to work on it for a few weeks, which means I have lots of time to fret and worry. Thanks for the input!
The good news is that bell housing comes off fairly easily. Be sure to get that socket to remove the intermediate transfer case gear castle nut.
