Do I really need a new clutch?

[91Bear]

I got the rear pinion seal replaced a while back and the mechanic said, "You're going to need a new clutch pretty soon."

Now, the truck belonged to my grandfather and I don't know if it has ever had a clutch replacement but I would imagine it has (1969 & 141,000 miles). How can I tell if it needs a new clutch? Should the clutch engage/release close to the floor or at end of the pedal travel?

[hazelnut]

No way to tell by where the pedel sits at because you can ajust it to where ever you want the pedel to be at.
Dose the clutch slip ? Like when you go uphill and give it lots of pedel. Dose the clutch chatter or make the truck jump when you try to take off ? If not then look at the bellhouseing cover bolts and see if a wrench has been on them. If not then he don't know because he hasen't looked at it and is trying to you into spending money for a new clutch IMO.

[sargentrs]

If it ain't slipping or chattering it's fine. She'll let you know when it's time.

[Calfdemon]

You can take the clutch inspection plate off at the bottom of the truck and check how much is left. It is only 4 bolts and is on the bottom of the bellhousing. Just go under the truck, take the 4 bolts out, take the inspection plate off, and take a look at the clutch. You will be able to see how much clutch you have left and then make a decision as to whether to replace it or not.