Clutch issue on 1986 5 speed RR

Hi All,
I purchased my '86 3.5, 5 speed Range Rover a few weeks ago. It handled the 1560km delivery drive flawlessly but now the clutch is 'soft' for first 5 - 6 inches of the downward movement of the pedal before it firms up almost at the bottom of the action and then getting into any gear is very difficult. I'm just starting out with these vehicles and would very much appreciate anyone's suggestions as to where to start/what the issues are.

Many thanks,

Christoph

Hi Christoph, your starting point is to go here then download CD3 (classic workshop manual) and Microcat Parts CD 1/2 (complete parts listings), they're long downloads.

Then go and have a look under the vehicle for any obvious faults, like bits hanging off/loose bolts, also check fluid level in the clutch master cylinder. If you don't find any visable faults it could be a faulty clutch master cylinder, I even known the clevis pin to fall out of the master cylinder push rod, but it sounds like you have a fault within the clutch bellhousing which will mean removing the gearbox or engine from the vehicle.

Does the vehicle show any signs of clutch slip while being driven or is it just difficult to engage a gear?

Also you stated that you drove the vehicle 1500+km after collecting it where do you live???

strip it an see if bleeding it does not work.It may have been pumped up for sale.
i got spare her for cheap if ya need it.

Your quick replies much appreciated.

I live in Auckland, New Zealand and collected the car in Queenstown, South Island of N.Z. and drove it the 1500km home.

Clutch did not slip at all on the return journey. All gears were easy to engage but by my return after 1500km it is hard to engage. When it was functioning well, it seemed to show plenty of 'meat' and by that I mean engaged early in the phase of lifting the foot on the pedal, as if there is plenty of clutch left. However I guess it could have been adjusted to its last legs by the seller. The clutch fluid bottle is very close to full.

Thanks/regards.

Christoph

at the bottom of the bell housing you can take a section plate off to inspect clutch.Easy ish to get off and look.
Parts there expensive?
may be cheaper to get a member to buiy you stuff and post it.

Sounds like you have a problem with the release mechanisam or the hydraulic system.

Check for fluild leaks or a faulty master cylinder, theres a possibility that the release system inside the bell housing has worn parts.

I tried to attach 2 screen prints of the bellhousing and release system but the site won't let me (files to big), pm me an email addy and I'II send them to you.

Also please update your profile and state your location.