Clanking noise when clutch engaged in low gear

[HerefordHywel]

The other day I began to notice a clanking noise, only in low gear however (1st and 2nd) where as I move off, something clanks. It happens again as I take my foot off the accelerator (to change into second), and again when I accelerate (in 2nd)

Sounding a lot like a spanner going around the washing machine once (it is not continuous) it seems to be when the engine is under strain in low gear. It can sometimes happen if I lift off the accelerator and the go back on fairly heavily (again mainly in second)

It has been suggested it is an issue with the fly wheel, so could anyone confirm this or suggest otherwise?

Thanks - Hywel

 

[jonnyfishing]

Try the engine and gearbox mountings or a loose/broken heat-shield
can't see it being the flywheel--unless it has been off recently.

 

[HerefordHywel]

Cheers. I will have a look after work tomorrow.

 

[Ron Gamma]

classic worn universal joint - knocks on acceleration or overrun.

whats the car?
front or rear wheel drive?

front wheel drive:
put car on axle stands and have someone press brakes. grab drive shaft and twist - shouldn't go more that 1/8" radially but mainly check to see if it clonks. now hold inboard joint and try the same thing. you are trying to locate any slack in the inner or outer CV joints.

rear wheel drive:
same tactics as above but put car in gear as well so as to lock the propshaft in place. Have friend hold flange on front of diff to stop it turning whilst you check driveshafts. (handbrake will hold wheels this time)

propshaft:
hold diff flange one hand and prop in other and twist to check for play.
same at other end for gearbox flange.
don't forget to check intermediate joints or sliding splines as well if fitted.

if this doesn't show up then move onto the gearbox and engine mounts.
if it still doesn't show up then start looking at the radius arm bushes and mounts.

 

[HerefordHywel]

I'm servicing the car this week, so hopefully I will get the chance to have a look tomorrow.

Car is a Ford Escort so is FWD

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Sounding a lot like a spanner going around the washing machine once

Thats a coincidence, my washing machine sounds just like its got a spanner inside it!