Confused about clutch wear limits

spandit · Post by **spandit** » Wed Jan 12, 2011 9:13 am

Just taken my clutch out and there are no big gauges etc.

I have measured across the whole thing, and it's about 9.8mm (repair manual states 10.6 ± 0.3mm)

However, repair manual also states:

"Lining thickness on each side = 3.9mm". Mine are measuring at about 4mm each side. Does this mean the leaf springs between the two plates are shot?

If I end up replacing the clutch, is it mandatory to replace both bits or can I just change the friction plate?

undysworld · Post by **undysworld** » Wed Jan 12, 2011 5:01 pm

Robin,
I'm not sure exactly what you're asking here, and my manual is at my shop. So take any advice with that in mind.

I read your post about the hex wrench, but I'm wondering why you're considering replacing the clutch parts (other than just "because I'm in there already", which is a valid enough choice to make, I guess).

Lining thickness on each side = 3.9mm

No manual - is this a nominal spec for new? Or minimum acceptable? If minimum, you're pretty close to due.

Does this mean the leaf springs between the two plates are shot?

Are you talking about the pressure plate?

both bits?

Meaning "clutch disc" and "pressure plate"? I believe standard procedure would be to replace both. But if money's an issue, and the pressure plate is in good repair, it might be ok for a while. I'd be concerned that the fingers were weakened with age.

Sorry I can't be of more help. But then, my advice is worth what you paid for it.

Good luck.

spandit · Post by **spandit** » Wed Jan 12, 2011 5:14 pm

undysworld wrote:...I'm wondering why you're considering replacing the clutch parts (other than just "because I'm in there already", which is a valid enough choice to make, I guess)

It was partly that - seeing as I had the gearbox off anyway to replace te bellhousing, changing the clutch is an easy step. I thought I'd take it off just to check it wasn't damaged by the hex-wrench

Lining thickness on each side = 3.9mm No manual - is this a nominal spec for new? Or minimum acceptable? If minimum, you're pretty close to due.

It just says exactly what I quoted, doesn't mention minimum.

Does this mean the leaf springs between the two plates are shot? Are you talking about the pressure plate?

No, the friction plate (the bit with non-asbestos brake pad material) - it's two rings of friction material with thin sprung metal in between them (not talking about the damping springs)

... my advice is worth what you paid for it

True enough. I think I'll put it back on as it wasn't causing problems before. It's not that difficult to drop the gearbox again in future, now I know, especially as the bolts aren't siezed...

undysworld · Post by **undysworld** » Wed Jan 12, 2011 7:15 pm

Robin,

Assuming you hadn't had troubles beforehand, that's probably what I'd be doing too. IMHO, since you're doing your own wrenching, it's not that big a deal to pull the tranny.

Regarding the clutch thickness, I've got a brand new disc over at my shop. I'll measure it tomorrow and post the dimensions.

Paul

spandit · Post by **spandit** » Wed Jan 12, 2011 7:17 pm

Cheers, Paul. Haven't quite worked out how I'm going to lift the 'box back on yet...

undysworld · Post by **undysworld** » Thu Jan 13, 2011 4:27 pm

Robin,

I measured each fiber disk, they are 3.92mm thick, new. Yours sounds good to me.

I've found it's easiest to just horse it back in there with a friend.

spandit · Post by **spandit** » Thu Jan 13, 2011 11:05 pm

Thanks, Paul. As soon as I stop vomiting/shivering I'll refit it...

undysworld · Post by **undysworld** » Fri Jan 14, 2011 7:19 am

Robin,

Sounds like flu. My condolences.

Last time I was in Mexico, the local pharmacy recommended a flu remedy to my traveling companion. She'd flown in from Japan, about a 15 hr. flight, and picked up some crap from the flight. Eat three or four lemons and drink copious amounts of tequila.

Whatever, it works. (Either that, or by the time you sober up the flu is over.) Good luck.

Regards,
Paul

spandit · Post by **spandit** » Fri Jan 14, 2011 7:22 am

Feeling a bit better now but it's still raining here & don't fancy crawling in the mud to fit anything right now