Clutch movement on my new 31 saloon

[Duncan Grimmond]

When I first started my first Austin 7 I could not disengage the clutch to select first gear without a crunch which encouraged the car to move forward, a dragging clutch. As Nick has said, there is a solution available which involves a complete rebuild of the clutch and replacement of all parts. The John Dalby and the Woodrow methods work. Also, speak to an expert on the 'phone, soothing and encouraging words are very helpful!
While you're at it, make sure that the clutch pedal is assembled correctly and its position on the actuating shaft gives the correct amount of travel.
The relatively tiny amount of travel makes for a "savage" action but you'll get used to it.