Clutch/flywheel noise? Total noob here...

[Nolan]

Well, its hard to say, it's been trouble getting it up and going and there are only my first 2 test drives. once before, which seemed okay aside from the noise, and this one where I have the leak and some sputtering. I think I must be getting coolant inside... almost sounds like misfires and rougher ride so I think I need to trouble shoot this one bit at a time.

I can't exactly drop the transmission out on my own and get cracking on a clutch change but I can address the leak in the head gasket, so I'm going to start there and see it things improve. If the power improves I know it was the leak, if it doesn't I start looking for the next thing.

quietly optimistic, but I have a bunch of troubleshooting ahead still. Thanks for all the great advice everybody!

[davidbruce]

Good luck Nolan. I think you are on the right track. Pulling the head and inspecting the cylinder wslls, combustion chambers etc. will give you a sense of general engine condition. Tackle the leak and the rest will follow.