nickm347

I think the noise is coming from my clutch.
'91 C2 over 78k miles. I do not know if its the original clutch or not.
It started out intermittent, but is happening more often. When I start from a stop (1st, reverse, or even 2nd with enough revs) the sound begins. I first thought it was a tire rubbing. When the clutch is being released, at the very top of the pedal, it makes this noise. I'm not sure if you can tell from the video. Sounds like something is rubbing.
The noise is not present when the clutch pedal is fully engaged, only when being released, at the very top.

The noise doesn't appear to affect driving. The clutch pedal feels fine and returns normally.

I've tried doing some research, but I haven't come up with much. Is my clutch going out? Is it the slave cyl.?

http://youtu.be/ju27lae_GTs

nickm347

I also forgot to mention, during "spirited" driving, it started to do it when I down shifted into 2nd or 4th, but not as bad.

Vandit

Throw out bearing?

nickm347

That's what I initially thought. I think a throwout bearing will be when the clutch pedal is fully pressed, but this happens only when its almost fully released.

Rocket Rob

That is an odd sound. Have you tried jacking up the rear of the car and listen while someone manipulates the clutch? While you have the car up, I would also double check the axles, wheel bearings and engine mounts. I doubt they are the cause but it would be good to be sure.

KY71T

Could this be the motor mounts or axles?

Rocket Rob

It sounds like a noise made by something spinning to me, so I doubt its engine mounts but if you have the car up already, why not check everything.

Another thought, when you have the car jacked up, also check the transmission fluid level and CVs. Also, does the noise occur if you let the clutch out when the transmission is in neutral?

nickm347

The noise only happens when a gear is selected. Usually 1st or R, but if you try and start out in 2 or 3 it'll make the noise. Nothing in Neutral.

Vandit

Damn, starting to sound like transaxle internals....

nickm347

That worries me. I would think if it was something serious, the noise would be present all the time. The gearbox doesnt make any noises, and shifting is smooth.

I guess I'm just going to have to suck it up and take it to the dealer.

tbennett017

dealer?
Where are you? We might be able to recommend someone who actually knows about your car.

nickm347

The closest dealer is in Charleson, WV. I'm in the Kentucky/Ohio/West Virginia Tri-State area. Is there a good source that lists Independent shops?

I took my father out in the car to let him have a listen, as he could provide some insight. It made the noise when he got in as I drove away, and didn't make it again for the rest of the drive.

He also seems to think it's a throwout bearing.