Clutch / Gearbox Fault

[Nick Gramaglia]

Hi all,
I have a small problem with my series three Coupe when I start the engine from cold it turns over on the starter motor easier if I dip the clutch and starts no problem, but when I then release the clutch in neutral the car lurches forewad it does not stall and drives fine but I wonder if this is the start of something expensive.
Nick

[ColinMarr]

Nick,

Mine does almost the same thing, but I wouldn’t describe it as ‘lurches’ forward, more like a gentle nudge. I think it’s just the cold viscous oil in the gearbox picking up some forward drive and is nothing to worry about. If the gearbox oil hasn’t been changed for a few years you might try doing that and a using modern oil, like Fiat’s Tutela 80W/90.

Colin

[Richard Fridd]

if the clutch is not fully disengaging i think the only adjustment is by means of the wing nut on the cable.i do normally depress the clutch pedal when starting anyhow[especially from cold]to give the starter motor less load.richard

[Peter W]

Mine does just the same.  The hand book tells you to depress the clutch when starting.  Clearly this reduces drag and gives the starter an easier time.

Peter

[Nick Gramaglia]

Thanks for the replies,I doubt the gearbox oil has been changed in the last 5 years so I will do that.
Regards Nick