Engine rebuild...do I need to repalce clutch and how much of it??
 

I dropped the engine because of a chain tensioner failure (1981 SC of questionable heritage). I'm getting ready to put back in the car. Do I need to (should I) replace the clutch? I freshened the trans a couple of years ago and didn't do it then. the car shifted fine. If I replace the clutch, what should I replace? Just the disc, get the kit, kit plus shift fork??
Any help is appreciated.
Thanks.

With the price of clutch kits these days, I would just check the shift fork for cracks and make sure the TOB is smooth, then put everything back in.
I replaced my 50,000 mile clutch when I did my first engine drop, and the old disc was pretty much the same thickness as the new one. I have well over 100,000 miles on that disc now...
I wonder what kind of life people typically see from their 915 clutches?

personally, i would replace the needle bearing and the disk. However, if you are comforatable pulling the motor at a moments notice, just measure the disk and keep it in service. goop up the needle bearing with some grease and give it a go.

Thank you. Should I have the flywheel cut?

again..this is my personal opinion...if the flywheel is in good condition, without any surface rust or deep grooves, why not use it as is? however, if it has some surface rust or any grooving, have the machinist take off the bare minimum. I would think since this is a pretty cheap procedure, its kindof up to you. I paid 60 bucks last time I had one "skimmed". If it has surface rust,this rust will funk up your clutch disk

Thank you. That sounds like cheap insurance. Cheers.

I think you've answered your own question there

For me a clutch is one of those "while you're in there" things especially when an engine drop is involved.

It depends. You can measure the thickness of the disc and see how it compares to the thickness of a new one (sorry, I don't have those numbers handy at home here right now). That said, the pressure plate can fail at any time, even if it has only a few miles on it. If it's been sitting compressed for many years tucked away in a garage ("questionable heritage"), then it may be "sprung out" and weak and may begin to slip. New engine, I typically use a new clutch just so I don't have to worry about it again. FYI, here's my article on the clutch replacement:

Pelican Technical Article: Clutch Replacement - 911 (1965-86) - 930 Turbo (1975-86)

-Wayne

OK, thanks gents...new it is.