When Is It Time to Change Clutch 993

[SP2]

Hello,
My 97 993 has 41k miles on it. I bought it used at about 35k. The friction point has always been high on my clutch. I know it is a hydraulic pedal, not a cable like my 81SC, so I can't adjust it. It seems there is a funny smell when I first ease out the clutch as I back the car out of the garage in the morning. It seems to be more slippery when cold when compared with my 81SC (and I installed a new clutch in the 81SC). But it seems to be fine when actually driving.

What do you look for in a failing clutch? Just absolute failure? I hope I can install this one myself also when time. I need to find some manuals for a 993 first (any leads?).

Thanks!

[Bill Verburg]

Generaly they are good till the rivits start screeching

Here's mine @~50k, replaced because the engine & trans was out any way





you might be able to gauge wear by looking through the inspection port in the bell housing, but I've never been able to tell.

[Don Plumley]

Agreed on smell being exhaust.

Mine had 80K miles when we replaced with a LWF. Wrench said the clutch probably had another 5 to 10K on it.

Aside from rivet screeching, another test of worn clutch is to accelerate uphill in a high gear. You'll feel the slipping.

It is a DIY if you've done it before; beware the engine/transmission is a bit heavier so you'll want a sturdy jack and/or friends. There are some tricks to the release shaft and needle bearings I'm told. On Rennlist you will find some DIY information. While an experienced person can just drop the tranny, for a DIY it's easier to drop the engine/tranny and replace on the ground.

Of course, if you drop the engine there are some "while you are in theres" that you should take advantage of: RMS, Tranny nose seal, power steering belt, SAI valve. Great time to replace plugs and possibly wires too.