Time for a Clutch/some questions

[BrentW]

Its time to replace my clutch and I had some questions. I'm torn between doing this job myself or having my independent P-car mechanic do the job. While the engine is out I'm going to replace the plugs and also try to clean the air injection valve(or whatever its called that causes the random check engine lights) My question is this:
How difficult is engine removal with out a lift or factory workshop manuals?
I've done a lot of work on Honda's including engine swaps etc, and restored a few vintage VW's so I think I could handle it, just a bit nervous being the first major work I've done on my Porsche.
Is there a good place to find info on the mechanicals of my car besides the $1000 workshop manuals?
Where can I get more info on fixing the problem causing the check engine light on my car?
Is there anything else I should do while the engine is out?
My Independent quoted me $700-900 to do the job plus $200 for cleaning the air injection thingy, Plus parts.
My car is a 1996 993 C2 with 50,000 miles. 80 year old man owned the car before me possibly why the clutch is bad so early.
What do you guys think?

[Don Plumley]

Dropping the engine is no real big deal if you've got good jackstands and a friend or two. Post on the main board and I bet a couple of guys will show up to help.

It's pretty intuitive if you've dropped a VW engine. Search on the forum here, ping Bill V., go to www.p-car.com, etc.

For the SAI CEL, read the sticky above, search on Rennlist on SAI Flush.

While you've got the engine out, definitely do the plugs and you might replace the Clutch slave cylinder too.

Nice opportunity to put in an LWF!

[BrentW]

Thanks Don! I just gave in and bought the workshop manuals so hopefully all will go well.

[Bill Verburg]

Is there anything else I should do while the engine is out?

Check all the vacuum lines and fittings and the external seals for the chain tensioners

If none of the above is faulty now, they soon will be.

[BrentW]

Originally posted by Bill Verburg
Check all the vacuum lines and fittings and the external seals for the chain tensioners

If none of the above is faulty now, they soon will be.

Should I go ahead and replace all the vacuum lines for preventative maintenance, or just any that show wear? I am in love with your 3.8 by the way! Have to clean up the drool when I read your posts.

[Bill Verburg]

I would inspect the vacuum lines for cracks, collapsed and hard areas

The oil bridge seals I think I would do as a matter of course. They are cheap but harder to get at in the chassis.

[aigel]

Where did you buy the workshop manual, if I may ask?

Dropping the engine is not a big deal, if you remove all that's connected to it. I actually like dropping the engine on a 911 better than on any water cooled front engine car that I have done it on (and I have done plenty). If you put a cover on the fenders and bumpers, there is little ways to mess up your paint and body. That's not the case on a front engine car that has to be lifted out ...

George