I was demonstrating the 4X4 prowess of my Ranger to a buddy this week by climing a really steep snow bank. I started at the bottom, pretty much from a dead stop and slowly feathered the clutch to keep the revs up so I could get the front end to climb. I got to the top, but was then greeted by an increadible smell of burnt clutch - not a good thing.

I know, I know.... you are all saying "Lugan cant drive - get an auto" but I have been driving sticks exclusivley for over 20 years, and I have never experienced a clutch lining as soft as this.

Is this a common issue with the clutch in these things ?? I've only had it for a couple months, so not sure if it is designed as a way for Ford to get you back in a service bay, or if it is unique to my beast.

Any ideas/ comments?

2007 FX4 Off Road Level II
(RED - the FAST color :)

 

I've done it before in mine too! That was a long time ago and it's still going good. I have'nt done it more then once or twice though.




Allen

 

Where you in 4lo?

 

I know I've done it at least once in heavy wet snow.

 

"Were you in 4lo?"

Yes, but not sure if that should matter. With the lower ratio, it should make it even easier i.e. less feathering.

 

I don't know what it could be. The only time my clutch ever gave off a smell was when I tried to power break it when it was slipping and I roasted the clutch for a while. Other wise i've never had that happen. But I ask if you were in 4lo because if you were in 4hi that would explain why you were burning the clutch up so much.

 

It smelled because you feathered the clutch, and revved it at the same time. It's just a stinky one.

 

if you were in 4lo you should have had to ride the clutch. in 4lo i can take off in 5th gear without giving it any gas.