my 1968 bug sounds like a coffee can of nuts and bolts when i let out the clutch what could it be?

Question

clutch assembly or the transaxle how would i tell the difference?

Answer 1

If the car is running smoothly, but with noise, and if the noise happens in ALL the gears, I vote with the guy that said it is the throwout bearing.

Good news: Parts are about $20 ($50 if you replace the clutch at the same time - a wise move)

Bad News: The throwout bearing is between the engine and the transmission., mounted on the transaxle. THe only way to get to it is to pull the engine.

While the engine is out, you might as well do some other maint. such as cleaning off the oil cooler and the rest of the engine.. (that makes it cool more efficiently and extends the engine life). You can also tighten up all those loose bolts and, iIf you always wanted a lot of chrome on your engine.. now's the time while its sitting there on the ground - grin).

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Answer 2

Visual check the outside (which is the transaxle, brake shoes(lift the rear and see if the wheel is wobbly first >and they shouldn't be) then pull off the drums. Eliminate the easy stuff first before pulling the motor.(only because it is faster)(check the exhaust for looseness as well - bang on the bottom of it with your fist to see if you hear any rattles.

Answer 3

It will either be the thrust bearing or the gearbox itself, the only way to tell would be to try and top up your gearbox oil to see if this quietens it down, the noise won't disappear but if it is the gearbox it will muffle it slightly...

Answer 4

In regard to the above answer, chrome tin on your engine will hold heat in. VW knew what they were doing in panting the tin black. Black will run 15dg cooler than any other color, especialy chrome. Just dont do it man.

Answer 5

I think it is the throw out bearing.

Answer 6

sound,s more like your throwout bearing has nearly disintegrated.