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Topic: Clutch Inspection Cover Clanking

in Forum: C3 Driveline Components


Clutch Inspection Cover Clanking

Posted: 7/22/25 2:37am Message 1 of 5
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Stillwater, MN - USA
Joined: 5/26/2021
Posts: 7
Vette(s): 1968 Coupe 327 / Muncie 4 Speed

I pulled the 327 out of my '68 vette this winter to replace core plugs, rear main seal, oil pan seal, etc. Also put in a new clutch and resurfaced the flywheel.  I have it all put back together, but upon starting the engine there is a noticable clanking/vibration coming from the inspection cover.  It does this whether the clutch is engaged or not.  I took the cover off once already and saw maybe just a little rubbing from the back side (facing flywheel), so bent that edge toward the engine. I put it all back together (along with the starter and oil filter... uuugghhh). But it's still clanking.  I see on new covers there are 'tabs' that pin behind the oil pan. I don't think my cover has the tabs.  Maybe they didn't come on a '68?  I'll have to take it off again and inspect.  Wondering if anyone else has had this problem.




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Re: Clutch Inspection Cover Clanking

Posted: 7/22/25 10:28am Message 2 of 5
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Equinunk, PA - USA
Joined: 10/31/2007
Posts: 2469
Vette(s): 1972 conv, 4-speed, 350, 200hp, numbers match, rally wheels, war bonnett yellow w/white top. good condition, nice driver.

Hi, Unless you are a OEM person, is the cover cast, or stamped. Maybe try a different cover. Did you move the ring gear? Could it be rubbing from incorrect installation?




Re: Clutch Inspection Cover Clanking

Posted: 7/22/25 2:58pm Message 3 of 5
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Grapevine, TX - USA
Joined: 8/26/2006
Posts: 1528
Vette(s): 1972 LT-1 convertible with factory air. 2017 Black Rose Grand Sport convertible.

A 68 inspection cover is the same as the other years.  Just depends on whether you have a 10.5" clutch or an 11" clutch.

Just do a search for your specific application.

https://www.corvettecentral.com/c3-68-82/transmission/clutch-bell-housing/63-72-clutch-flywheel-bell-housing-inspection-532118




   

Re: Clutch Inspection Cover Clanking

Posted: 7/22/25 7:07pm Message 4 of 5
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Stillwater, MN - USA
Joined: 5/26/2021
Posts: 7
Vette(s): 1968 Coupe 327 / Muncie 4 Speed

Helpful posts/suggestions so thank you.   I didn't move or touch the ring gear.  The plate is stamped (looks to be original; almost everything is).  I have a 327 and from that I see it's a 10.5" clutch.  So, that means my inspection plate does not have those tabs.  Shoot, I though that might be my ticket to removing the noise.  




Re: Clutch Inspection Cover Clanking

Posted: 7/22/25 9:43pm Message 5 of 5
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Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20217
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/ Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight" #2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas

Those covers can be a lit tricky to get back on without issues. They're usually bent a lil bit on removal. Yours should have tabs on each side to fit into the lip of the oil pan close to the crank. If the tabs are not positioned properly, the cover will sit too far back, and rub on the flywheel. I would suggest removing it again, and make sure it is straight across the top edge, and then taking your time to re-install, making sure the tabs are in the correct position. Might take a lil finessing to get it right, but it should fit. 

 

 




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in Forum: C3 Driveline Components


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