I am finalizing the work on the engine and transmission and got everything back together but I would like to make sure that I got everything right before getting the engine & tranny back into the car.

So the question is, should I be able to fully move the clutch release fork or it is normal to not be able to get it to fully push the clutch (pressure plate??). All this just pulling on the fork with my hand.

Probably a stupid question but I have to ask. I would not like to reinstall the engine and have to pull it out again because I screw something.

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You would never be able to depress the clutch with your bare hands, way to stiff.

So, the only movement you can achieve at this point is the free play of the release bearing. That free play will be eliminated once the clutch is adjusted properly as the pedal assembly actually keeps the release bearing againts the clutch diaphragm (helper spring in the pedal assembly).

If you had your flywheel faced, you may have changed the geometry of the fork release action movement. To solve this issue, you would need to shim the clutch fork ball (pivot). Search this forum, plenty of information on this topic.

If you didn't touch the flywheel, disregard this comment.

You did replace the clutch fork cup bushing, right?

Good luck with the reassembly!

Did you replace the ball cup for the throw out arm while you were in there?

I found the idea of the pedal riding on the release bearing to be really confusing. I think that the manufacturer should have provided a sticker saying: we know you are riding on the throw out bearing. It is a bearing. Get used to it. Not everybody knows.

Thanks (Merci!) for the confirmation!

No work done on the flywheel or clutch so I should be able to reinstall everything and still get the same adjustment as before.

Yes the cup bushing was replaced.