There are classics where the pedal must be pressed all the way to the bottom before it is released. Most people then immediately think that the clutch plate, the thrust bearing, even the thrust group is worn ... That is possible, but not necessary.
It is useful to know that the extreme play between the clutch plate, the pressure group and the flywheel is not expressed in millimeters, but in tenths of them. So there is a good chance that any play in the system can be disastrous for proper operation. Therefore, before you start dismantling, it is advisable to perform a number of checks. For example the play from the rod to the pedal and to the so-called 'clevis pin' in the pedal. Both the rod and this pin as well as the hole of the clutch pedal can wear out nicely after more than forty years of intensive use. A new clevis pin is purchased in this way, a new rod usually also, a new pedal becomes more difficult in most cases. Then you have nothing else to do than 'weld up' and drill out again.
The hydraulic system - if applicable - also deserves attention. Do you need to top up regularly, are there signs of leaks at the auxiliary clutch cylinder? No leakage to see and never topping up does not necessarily mean that everything is fine. Release the parking brake, start the engine, press the clutch, engage the first gear, let the engine run at idle. If the thing starts to 'crawl' after a while, the problem lies in the main clutch cylinder. The fluid presses slowly along the seal. Revision or replacement is then the order of the day. If there is a fluid loss at the auxiliary clutch cylinder, it is leaking. Repairing or replacing is then the remedy. Have you thought about air in the system? Just to be sure, only bleed once ...
Well, if all of the above has not helped, it can be difficult to switch on because of too thick carpet, or too much sound-damping material against the bulkhead, so that the pedal cannot be pressed far enough… If it is not all that, then it is yet the link. In such a case it is wiser to replace everything with new. So thrust bearing, pressure group and clutch plate. By the way, in order to save the engine and clutch, never start with the clutch depressed, do not use the clutch pedal as a 'footrest' and never wait for a 'open' bridge, railroad track or whatever at a traffic light, in a traffic jam, collapsed link. This is bad for the bearing work and the axial play of the motor ...
