I recently got a new clutch assembly in my 97 4X4 4.2L. Ever since getting it back, I have noticed a small shudder when I'm taking off in 1st from a dead stop. At first, I thought maybe the flywheel wasn't resurfaced, but my dealership promises it was done. Anyway, after driving the truck for a week after the clutch was replaced, I'm thinking that it is actually not the flywheel but rather the engine that is shuddering. It only does this from a dead stop. Does anybody know what this might be?

 

Well, if you think it's the engine, it could really be anything. Best bets...Pehaps the tranny-engine connection bolts weren't tightened, and the vibration is the shudder. Mine shudders like that, but it's just the tranny. Needs a flush. Anyway, keep us posted!

 

It's clutch chatter. If they used a stock replacement disk it should go away soon. If they stepped up to a heavier duty clutch material it may chatter forever. what is happeneing is the clutchis gripping as it tries to slip (as you let the clutch out)

 

Well, I just went to the dealer and they too said it was clutch chatter. The service manager and I went for a ride together and he explained that the clutch is in fact trying to grip as I let it out, so it really isn't anything to worry about. Thanks for the help though.