Rattling Clutch Fork

[mpp 0]

Clutch fork on my Pinto 2L / Type-9 has started rattling when pedal isn't pressed. The fork has a bit of free movement (up-and-down) but nothing like enough to touch the edges of the hole it protrudes through on the bell-housing. Car drives normally, apart from the clatter, and no indication of release bearing failure. Gently touching the clutch pedal silences the clatter. Clutch is ~15 years and 15,000 miles old. There is no gaiter fitted where it emerges from the bellhousing. There is a (non-standard?) return spring which lightly and constantly pulls the lever rearwards.

Is there a "classic" reason for this clatter? Is there a simple fix?

[John Mack 342]

The non standard return spring is a waste of time as the diaphragm springs on the clutch are all you need for the clutch to be "engaged".........but I'm thinking it's probably just a light weight spring anyway so why not refit it so it's pulling forward on the clutch fork?

The clutch pedal should be sprung loaded .....maybe the spring at the pedal has broken?

 

Wouldn't do any harm to fit a gaiter/boot ??   Genuine Ford Sierra, Escort Type 9 Gearbox, Bellhousing Gaiter, Boot | eBay UK

[sheffieldcortinacentre 767]

If anything it should be pulling forward not away from clutch.

[mpp 0]

Non-standard spring removed. Rattle gone. :-)

 

Thanks everyone.