Vibration and clutch release problems

[skipbaker]

I think I'm having some problems with my clutch. Not sure.
I have a 302 (5.0l) with a T5Z transmission. New ford racing clutch, t/o and pilot bearings, almost new Ford racing T5Z transmission.

The problems are huge vibration in the stick above 4000 RPM and the clutch will not release until it drops to about 3500 RPM. When I go to WOT and press the clutch to the floor and let off the gas the engine stays at high RPM and slowly drops to 3500 when the clutch finally releases. It shakes so hard the ball keeps unscrewing and the fake reverse lockout shifter broke into pieces. I've replace it with the stock FFR shifter now.

Today I went to my local transmission shop for him to check things out. We revved the engine to 5500 RPM and the shifter shook. Then we tried it with the clutch down and in 2nd gear. the same shaking stick but the clutch started to drag and smell about 4000RPM.

Car drives fine below 3500RPM, but what fun is that!!!

[Jac Mac]

Is the flywheel the correct balance factor for the engine build? There are 28oz, 50oz factory versions & zero/neutral balance versions depending on how the motor is built.

[MAStuart]

Sounds like the pilot bearing came out of the crank!

Mark