Should the throwout arm pivot bolt be replaced when a new clutch is installed?

[Hi_Fi_Guy]

Had a new clutch installed approx 1500 miles ago. Saturday the clutch pedal dropped to the floor and the car made a horrible noise from the gearbox area. Immediately pulled over and called AAA to tow my 71 Targa to the shop who did the work. They suspect the pivot bolt for the clutch release fork failed. Will know for sure when they get they engine & trans dropped.

Is this something that should have been inspected & replaced when they installed the clutch? Or just a coincidence that could happen with any older 911?

Anyone experience this failure before? What would your expectations be in this situation?

It's an old car and I understand any part can break at any time. Just curious if this is a known weak spot or just dumb luck.

[Danimal16]

Make sure they put in the correct pressure plate for the 71. Also, check the side cover cable guide. If it is out of round it may present an issue.

[proporsche]

Hi Brian..for me it is a coincidence..of course you can look at the pivot bolt we assume they did .it could brake..
Ivan

[seafeye]

I’d put a new bolt in and spring plate. Cheap insurance. The ‘71 is somewhat unique and those pieces can be put in wrong. Double triple check with the service manual. And torque to spec. Also important that the clutch cable is installed correctly.

Post #6

clutch cable for 70-71 901

[Hi_Fi_Guy]

Thanks for the terrific responses. Especially seafeye pointing out the great responses from Grady Clay in a much older thread. My guess is my highly original car still had the old style bolt that Clay says is prone to breakage. So far just about everything on my car has been original so that is probably the case.

Also glad to know this part isn't generally considered a "replace every time" component and is just a case of bad luck.