I think I just need a little confidence builder here. Here's my deal.

I broke in the cam in my stock 66 SS 396 (4sp Muncie) a few months ago, but learned soon after the clutch would not disengage. I searched this site and found some solutions. After many tests, it is clear the clutch disk is stuck to the flywheel and/or pressure plate. Here's the weird part. I bolted the rebuilt transmission to the engine way back in 1992, that was the last time the clutch was released. So the pressure plate has been pressing on the disk for 16 years now.

In the garage, I put the rear end on jack stands (car is backed into garage), started the car in first and was able to run it and shift through the gears like butter - very smooth. In each gear, I ran up to about 2000 rpm. In 4th, I ran it up to 2500 rpm and held it there for about two minutes. There was no vibrations or unusual noises at all throughout all of this so I think the driveline is in pretty good shape. After running in 4th for the two minutes, I slammed on the brakes to break the clutch disk free and the engine died. It is still stuck.

I am now about to roll the car out onto the driveway, warm it up, and start it in gear for a run down an alley to try to break the clutch free. The battery and starter are both in good shape and the car is otherwise ready for a spin around the block. Does anyone have any advice on how best to do this or anything to watch out for? Its kind of a big deal for me since this will be the first real drive for my car since I bought it in 1991. I have learned a ton from you guys already but need a bit of advice on this so I don't screw something up. Thanks in advance, Wayne

I broke one loose with the car on jack stands and alternated between 2nd and reverse. I jammed the brakes a bunch of times before it let loose. You could also just give it little tug with your pickup truck. Just put the car in 3rd of 4th.

The clutch is stuck with light surface rust. If you can drive the car I have had good luck slowing the car down with the brakes with trans in fourth gear and holding the clutch pedal down. It may take a couple of tries but I have found that just as you think the engine is going to stall the clutch will brake free.

If you can get it started in gear, get it on a good dry road so your tires have good traction, push the clutch in and romp on and off the throttle in first. Just remember your car is F'd up so be safe.

the disc can get REALLY stuck, so good luck, if you are able to do so safely, you may need to use 3rd or 4rth to really place enough load on it to break it free.

Wayne,
My 73 Z-28 used to do it after sitting all winter. I used to get it going down the road about 30 mph, push in the clutch and hit the brakes real hard. It would break loose every time. If that wont do it than you will probably have to pull the trans and pry it loose :(

My Chevelle did the same thing. I started the car and side stepped the clutch a few times and it let go.

just haul some ass. it will break loose!

If you can get it started in gear, get it on a good dry road so your tires have good traction, push the clutch in and romp on and off the throttle in first. Just remember your car is F'd up so be safe.

This method has always worked for me too. You can do this at 5-10 mph and be somewhat safe.

Whatever method you try, just be careful........