Clutch Component Inspection

[patkeefe]

I have the clutch apart on my turbo SC. Background is that the clutch system was fine, until I blew out the flywheel end oil seal, and oiled up the clutch. OK, so then I tried to cheap out, and clean the disc off with brake cleaner (I had to take the engine back out anyway, so it was worth a try). It slipped. Prior to this, I had no clutch issues whatsoever, and it hooked up quite well at the track, and was easy to drive on the street.

So, now I have the engine out again. I am trying to inspect the clutch components to see if I need to replace the clutch. I have been informed that a new clutch disk is 8mm thick. I verified this from ZF in Illinois yesterday. My clutch disc measures 7.25mm. ZF Tech also told me the difference in "spring" on a Sachs Power Clutch versus the standard iron pressure plate clutch which I have is about 5%. And, the aluminum PP is three pounds lighter. I can reline the disc for $125. Power clutches cost $$$. This is analogous to buying a new driver for $600 so I can hit the ball 6 years farther.

It seems the most popular answers to the rebuild vs replace question is "replace". I don't see any valid explanation for replace, as I can't find any criteria for the inspection of the pressure plate or throw out bearing, other than visual inspection. If anyone has any inspection information they are willing to share, I am all ears. I am still hemming and hawing over this issue.

TIA,
Pat

[gregwils]

If you are comfortable with the person who can reline your clutch disc - seen his work or came as a referral, then go for it. At $125, the potential downside is limited. I would guess the worse thing that could happen is that you loose some lining and damage your flywheel surface, plus time r&r.

I don't think many will respond to your post because most just replace the clutch,pp ,t/o bearing and resurface the fw, so not much experience with just disc relining. The quality of new Sach's components can usually be trusted, but whether or not the relining would work out well for you is dependent on the quality of the resurfacing material and the workmanship. You're the only one that can pass judgement on the quality of those.

[Windsor4273]

I accidentally got brake cleaner on the clutch of my 1969 Rover 2000tc and it has not stopped slipping since.... That is my spring project as it requires pulling the engine and tranny... This is why my 911 has become my daily driver. Funny my usual DD is 10 years older and far more rare than the 911.