clutch for a 1940 LaSalle 5019

[z3skybolt]

I need to replace/rebuild the clutch for my 1940 5019 LaSalle.  Does anyone have a "new/rebuilt" one for sale?  Mine may be rebuildable but I prefer to purchase one ahead to save downtime.

Appreciate any advise from those of you familiar.

Bob Ritchie

[Poncholover]

You will need to confirm but...
Ford FE clutches are supposed to work. (360,390,427,428)

[harry s]

Bob, Looks like you have a beautiful new (to you) LaSalle. Congratulations. If you decide to have yours rebuilt I would recommend Ft Wayne Clutch in Indiana. I don't know if they have rebuilt units available for exchange. The last time I used them the turn around time was about a week. Also good to check the size that's in your car. Also it is a good idea to turn or face the flywheel. Good Luck,    Harry

[z3skybolt]

thanks Harry,

It is not as nice as my 5227 which I totaled but half the money. I spent all last fall and winter looking.  Drove over 4,000 miles looking and even bid on two auctions. Could not find anything as nice as my previous. So, after three trips to Michigan and driving it twice I bought this car.  40+ years in the same family.  4,500 miles on a quality overhaul which was done in 1983.  Engine is smooth and quite. Starts INSTANTLY....hot or cold!  Quick as a modern car! Cosmetically very nice  But suspension/steering needs work.  I knew the clutch slipped when I bought it.

Funny. My wife likes the sedan better than the coupe! Go figure.  Anyhow back to the clutch.  I haven't dealt with such since a teenager nearly 6 decades ago.  Is it a big deal removing the flywheel to have it resurfaced....when we pull the clutch?

Thanks for you continued support.

Bob Ritchie

[Jim Stamper]

Six more bolts in the flywheel.   Jim Stamper CLC#13470

[harry s]

Bob, Sounds like a really nice car. After the clutch sorting the steering and suspension should not be too difficult. The hard part is adjusting from a sporty coupe to a four door family car. I can relate.    Harry

[Bob Schuman]

Bob,
Most 40 LaSalles used the Borg and Beck clutch, but some may have the Long brand clutch. The bolt pattern for attachment to the flywheel is not the same. The B&B clutch cover is mounted with six equally spaced bolts, the Long has three groups of two bolts each. The flywheel must be compatible. Just something to watch for in obtaining replacement parts. Of course, unless your "new" LaSalle has its original engine, the above comment may be immaterial.
Does your clutch pedal have any free play at the top of its travel? If not, maybe all it needs is adjustment of the linkage.

[Brad Ipsen CLC #737]

Another external thing that happens with these clutches is the bushing in the clutch release relay lever (sounds like a fake name but that is Cadillac parts talk) is wiped out.  Another thing to check before going into the clutch.