Van Trouble Île de Ré

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essjay

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Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 09.07.2022 · #1

Evening all.....

Just arrived down in Île de Ré and having some van trouble. Anyone have recommendations for a mechanic in this area by any chance or any suggestions?

It's a Ducato 2.5TDI (a 1996 230). Having trouble changing gear - can't get 1st or reverse and the rest of the gears are a bit of a battle. Engine off, I can change gears no problem. I'm thinking it's not the clutch but maybe the clutch cable has maybe stretched/slipped. I had one snap before so I know I'm going nowhere if that happens.....

I could risk a run to the boat but might be wise to get it sorted down here.

Thanks!

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JJF

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 09.07.2022 · #2

Weld cracked in clutch fork at the point the arm meets the shaft.

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eirebus

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 09.07.2022 · #3

If you're in a site ask at reception if there's anyone local that can help you out,or in La Rochelle

Albert the Talbot

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 09.07.2022 · #4

It might be worth taking a look at the engine/gearbox mountings as if one has failed the engine could drop and leave everything out of line

sprinter

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Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 09.07.2022 · #5

First can you select 1st gear and start the engine with the clutch depressed without it jumping forward." No" then JJF is probably correct, again, and if that is the case, there is no fix, but to take out the gearbox. So I'm thinking breakdown cover. If you can stay put enjoy your time, get delivered to the boat, and then fix at home.

essjay

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 09.07.2022 · #6

Yes I can put it in first with the engine off. It doesn't jump when the engine started (with the clutch in)

JJF

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 09.07.2022 · #7

Martin…. No, cable off and pull the arm back and mig weld the crack between the arm & shaft. (It cracks outside the box where the 16mm shaft joins the clutch arm) …. Seen it before.
Actually, a very easy fix… then again, only easy if the guy mending it wants to make it easy !

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essjay

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 10.07.2022 · #8

Would JB Weld get me back home?

JJF

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 10.07.2022 · #9

Quote by essjay

Would JB Weld get me back home?

No, much too great a load factor in that area if it is a fracture between the arm and shaft … it will require welding… preferably with a MIG but could be stick welded if needed.

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eirebus

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 10.07.2022 · #10

Just a thought as your on an island,is there a local fishing boat repair place that could do MIG welding,or in La Rochelle

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 10.07.2022 · #11

Just for clarity, but wouldn’t the first gear test be that when the engine is started with stick in first and clutch NOT engaged, it jumps forward, if in gear , or not if gear is not engaged?

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 15.07.2022 · #12

Any progress report on this situation?

essjay

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 16.07.2022 · #13

I think I'm OK. I took a look at the clutch cable there's 2 nuts where they attach to what I assume is the clutch. They could be turned by hand and the clutch pedal seemed low. Tightened those up and it seems OK now.

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tony glenn

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 16.07.2022 · #14

That's good news....your situation reminded me of a gradual power steering failure heading back across the UK a few years ago.
That scary feeling being far from home (not as far as you) and having no local knowledge or contacts. Safe onward journey!

mvnube

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 16.07.2022 · #15

I taught you all the mechanics you know, but I didn't teach you all I know.

First thing is always, send the wife under to take a look, whilst you have a beer. Glad you got it sorted out.

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mvnube

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 16.07.2022 · #16

essjay

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 16.07.2022 · #17

Quote by mvnube

I taught you all the mechanics you know, but I didn't teach you all I know.

First thing is always, send the wife under to take a look, whilst you have a beer. Glad you got it sorted out.

Smartarse....

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essjay

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Re: Van Trouble Île de Ré

· Posted: 16.07.2022 · #18

Here's the two nuts I tightened. They seem fused together and both could be turned by hand. I was able to pull on the cable quite easily and the clutch pedal was a bit lower than usual.

I'm hoping all is good after tightening.

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