hmmm.
only signal i can think of re:clutch pedal is that switch that makes you have to depress the pedal operate the starter.
i can't see why it would make any difference, but mabe disconnect and see what happens?
you'd have to jump those wires to start(i leave it jumped on mine- so i try not to have it in gear yada yada).
if it works, it'll mabe mean something in that circuit, but it seems odd.
good head scratcher!