Thread: Puma 2.4 (2007MY) Clutch Issues (and info on update)

G'day fellas. Over the weekend I was driving my 2007 Defender 110, when suddenly I couldn't select second gear (side note: second has always been a little stickier than the rest of the gears since I purchased the Defender a couple of years back). I pulled over to the side of the road and tried selecting first, then reverse. Nothing. Then a wild rattle started to surge from what sounded like the gearbox, a tinny/springy type sound. While again working the clutch and trying to engage any gear, what felt like the drive shaft engaged (another side note: I'm only just schooling up on the mechanics, so forgive any inaccuracy). Whatever it was, it felt bad and I quickly killed the engine to stop it. After finally shifting into low range, neutral and then high again, I managed to drive my truck home, however, the rattle remains.

I've since been reading the threads on various forums detailing known issues with the Puma clutch, particularly the early release models like mine. I've noted that there has since been an upgrade clutch kit made available on the newer models, but am a little lost at sea as to what specifically this involves. Obviously in my case it's a little late. I've since taken my truck the the Land Rover specialists who service it (Graeme Cooper). They have indicated they will need to remove the box to make a proper inspection and diagnosis, but early indication of cost at around AUD$3000.

This kinda kills my plans for a decent tour in the next couple of months.

Does this sound about right to anyone who may have had a similar problem? And, is this something that you might be able to DIY fix with the right parts, manual and workshop space?

Appreciate any advice anyone has...

As an aside, any tips on how I can school up on the mechanics of my dearest truck with the aim of one day being able to troubleshoot problems myself, particularly on the road — courses, traineeships, anything? I've not known freedom like that experienced in my Landy, but if each mechanical issue sets me back like this I could be outta my depth financially.

Thanks

Jethro

Thanks mate. Been buried deep in the forums here, a mighty boon on information, researching as hard and fast as I can. Will keep you updated and may take you up on that offer of tips on bleeding out the clutch.