Farmall C Clutch Problem

In an attempt to back my 1950 Farmall C out of a shed, after it had been parked for several months, I discovered that the transmission would not engage in any gear. The clutch pedal would depress normally, but I experienced much gear clashing when attempting to put the gear shift lever into any gear. With the engine off, the gear shift lever would shift into any gear with ease. Somewhat unwisely, I started the engine with the gear shift in reverse and the clutch pedal depressed fully. The result was a short, but interesting five-second ride out of the shed. I flattened two lawn chairs before I could get to the ignition switch to shut the engine off. Sure am glad I didn't try that little experiment in a forward gear. Any hints on an easy fix from the experts out there? Thanks, in advance.

Block the clutch pedal down with a stick or other appropriate means, and let it sit overnite, or a day or two. This often will free it up. If that doesn't do it, BE SURE the ignition is disabled, and the clutch pedal is blocked all the way down. Put the tranmission in the highest gear, and get someone to help you rock the tractor back and forth as severely as you can by pushing on the rear wheels. That should do the trick.

If the feel of the clutch pedal has changed, there is a possibility of pressure plate problems, and there is also a remote chance that the lining is coming off the lined plate, and jamming the clutch, but if it has happened as you say, MOST LIKELY it just needs to be broken loose.

After you get it loose, be careful, and verify the clutch works as normal before getting in a tight spot with the tractor! If there is any doubt about the clutch not releasing properly, get it checked out by a mechanic, so no one gets hurt!

1 - If you have another tractor or vehicle capable of pulling your C, chain it to the front of the tractor. Block the clutch pedal down (or have an assistant ride on the seat and depress the clutch fully), put the transmission in the highest gear, then pull the tractor forward a few feet. Now move the tow vehicle around to the back and pull the tractor backward a few feet (tractor still in high and clutch depressed). Usually the clutch will pop free after 2 or 3 of these forward and back pulls. (For safety remove the center wire from the distributor so the motor can't start before attempting this!)

2 - If you have a large, flat open area this will also work: Start the tractor in low gear. Then with the engine at low idle "snap" shift the transmission a gear at a time until you've got the tractor rolling in high gear. (Don't worry - as long as you are on level or slightly downhill ground, snap shifting won't hurt the transmission). Once you've got it in high, open the throttle about 2/3, then stand on the clutch and both brakes at the same time. Unless it's stuck hard (unlikely) the clutch will pop free as soon as you hit the brakes.

Good luck and be careful!!