slapping sound from engine/trans area
 

I have a 1978 240d and theres a slapping metalic sound coming from the engine/trans mating area. It doesn't go away when you depress the clutch or when your driving until your going over 20 mph. It doesn't matter iof the car is fully warmed up or not and is intermitant when its fully warm. Could it be the hydraulic clutch actuator or throw out bearing. I also have problems keeping fluid in the dlutch system. it doesn't want to stay bled. Can anyone help me?, this is my only transportation.

Leaking Slave or Master Cylinder (clutch)
 

What you're describing is a leak.

The sound you describe,I hope is not the Clutch signaling for a replacement.

('Just a thought, Last time you inspected your Flex Disc(s) was?)

Well, I would not call what I have heard to be a ' slapping sound'... but I try to get the word out about the possibility of the metal piece on top of the engine mount which can become loose and cause some serious metallic ' tinkling' noise.... you have to actually feel of it to see if it is loose...

I would check the flex disc, they've been known to crack. You can usually see them in the flywheel opening/inspection port, at least on autos.

EDIT: This was on another thread I just checked and it may pertain:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/237244-pics-cracked-flex-plate.html

Good luck, keep us updated!

"Driven Plate"
 

tbomachines,

I like the "Driven Plate" as a diagnosis !

Nice investigative work !