Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Clutch life

[Berrigan]

Does anyone know if there is a way to visually see how much lining is left on the clutch without pulling the trans. Thanks Bill

 

[Berrigan]

anyone have an idea?

 

[DWitcher]

There is no possible way.

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

You can't tell but if you have 75,000 or so, you need to pull it down anyway for a new pilot bearing. I know a guy in the Vegas area who does the r&r for 275, to give you an idea of cost.

 

[Berrigan]

Joe,

What are the symptoms of the pilot bearing needing replacement. I have 81,000 on the original clutch, pilot, release bearing etc. Sometimes when the clutch is engaging from a second gear start you can hear a very high pitched squeal, that stops as soon as the clutch is completely engaged. Also what kind of miles are guys getting on stock clutches driving solo mostly in stop and go city driving. If it needs the pilot would I be better off to do the clutch and pressure plate too? Thanks Bill

 

[RJPotts]

I say if you've got the means, and you're pulling it apart anyways... you might as well put a new, stronger clutch in it. Your sig does say the clutch and head are the only things holding you back. Half of your problem could be gone.

That's my vote.

-R. J.

 

[DannyW]

FWIW, the bell housing on my ol' '94 has never been opened, and I'm about to roll 260,000 on the odometer. I have the advantage of minimal stop-n-go driving, though.

 

[dcoffman]

berrigan my first pilot bearing went for 98500 miles I just had it replaced again at 134000,go figure. Symptoms are hard to get in and out of gear and the squeal you heard. The shop charged me $227. 50 counting the bearing.

 

[Berrigan]

Thanks guys, This is not the time of year I want to have to deal with this but I guess its time to pull it apart and see whats going on. Bill

 

[surfbeetle]

FWIW: Pilot bearing will wear faster if you sit at a stop with your foot in on the clutch for long periods and if you rev it up with your foot on the clutch. If you're not moving, put it in neutral and let the clutch out. The t/o bearing only spins if your clutch is disengaged. I have 150,000 on the original t/o bearing and clutch with lots of stop and go driving. If you have to open it up, you may as well replace everything while your at it. No sense in doing a bearing and not the clutch and pressure plate at the same time.