Chatter from gearbox at idle - spigot bearing?

[Moog]

Hi,

My Xsara Picasso (2001 8v 1.6)n has started to develop a 'chattering' sound when idling with the clutch disengaged. The noise goes when the clutch is fully depressed.

I'm guessing that's a spigot bearing?

There's also bit of a thump when the clutch is let in despite 3 x new gearbox/engine mounts. And I've double-checked the infamous rear mount. When the clutch was done 2 years ago (LuK kit) and it had a new nose cone and fork. The clutch thumps less when it's cold.

When reversing up a steep driveway, the clutch does smell a bit. Something I've not had with other cars on the same driveway. I've heard from two mechanics that clutches can be a bit iffy on Xsara Picassos? Is that true?

Thanks!

[CitroJim]

It could be the release bearing... Or a loose diaphragm spring in the clutch cover - the riveting may be getting tired..

Or it could be excessive end-float on the gearbox input shaft...

It's a common enough issue and I've known 'boxes so afflicted soldier on for ages...

If you can smell the clutch and it thumps then definitely time to do a clutch job as soon as the weather allows...

[Peter.N.]

I would go with Jim, the release bearing is the most likely candidate followed by the other things he has mentioned. If the noise stops with just light pressure on the pedal the bearing is the most probable. As Jim says its unlikely to fail completely, at least not for some time, probably run out of lubrication.

Anything that causes you to slip the clutch for long will result in a burning clutch smell but not necessarily failure. Many years ago my mother slipped the clutch on her Chevette up a long steep hill behind a heard of cows - I had to fit a new one.

Peter

[white exec]

+1 for all that.

[Moog]

Thanks all. I'll test out to see if it chatter disappears until light clutch pressure.

There's a gearbox specialist in town - might get them to assess and do the necessary...

All the best!!