Setting the Clutch Bell and Spur Gear Gap

The proper relationship of the clutch bell and spur gear is crucial to the performance of your truck. There needs to be a small gap between the gears. However too much will result in stripped spurs, and too little will introduce friction. After a while you get a feel for how to properly set the gap. Until you feel comfortable with that, using the "paper method" will provide you with the best results.

To do this, you take a small piece of notebook or copier paper and place it between the clutch bell and spur gear as shown in the picture below.

Then hold the paper in place while you slide the engine and clutch bell towards the spur gear. To slide the engine over you will need to have previously loosened the engine mounting screws. Two of these screws are located under the rear skid plate. However, an access hole in the skid plate allows you to reach them.

While holding the motor in place, tighten the engine screws back down. After this procedure you can spin the gears by hand to release the paper. Once you remove the paper, you should notice a small gap between the gears as well as a little play. The picture below shows you where the engine mounting screws are located.

Between this and the proper adjustment of the slipper clutch, you should experience very few stripped spur gears.