You can replace many auto parts yourself. This
not only will save you money but also is a fun pass time. Here you will find
steps to replace your car’s clutch. This isn’t a complicated thing as you will see,
if you are not afraid of getting dirty a little then you will be able to change
your car’s clutch in no time. The steps are as follows:
Securing Your Car
Use a vehicle Jack to lift your car’s front-end
in a secure location. Make sure you put the jack under the oil pan for the best
results.
Transaxle Removal
You first need to remove the clutch cable and
the positive charge cable of the battery, then you will see the transaxle. You
need to remove this auto part first to get access to the clutch.
Engine Mount Removal
After detaching the positive charge cable and
clutch cable you need to unbolt the engine mount. That is your way to the
clutch. Take out the bolts around the flywheel bell housing before working your
way towards the transaxle. This will reveal the pressure plate. Push the
transaxle sideways from the engine. Don’t worry if it doesn’t move the first
time, this just means you need to exert a little bit more pressure.
Clutch Removal and Flywheel Repair
You need to unscrew the pressure plate and then
bring the clutch disc out so that you have access to the damaged clutch for
removal. When you are removing the clutch out you should also check the
flywheel. Make sure that there is no deterioration. If there are any hotspots
on the flywheel, then you need to replace the flywheel. Remember to clean out
the crankshaft flange of all the dirt and debris. Before installing the
flywheel, you should lubricate it appropriately.
Changing The Clutch
Once you have fixed the flywheel you need to
slide the new clutch disc in, that’s all. After that its the transaxle’s turn.
Transaxle Re-installation
To reinstall the transaxle just adjust it with
the clutch disc on the spindled hole. Keep moving the transaxle forward till
the input shaft slides in the spindled hole of the clutch. You can change the
bolts or re-use the old ones but make sure you tighten them.
Lower Your Vehicle and Drive Around
You need to lightly release your car gently
level it on the ground. After that take it out for a slow spin around the block
to see if the clutch is handling perfectly or not.
Getting The Parts
While you can go to your dealer or local garage
for the auto parts, I find it much cheaper to order online. There are plenty of
fantastic sellers of auto body parts online. These shops, I found are pretty focused on improving the
customer experience along with providing ease of use.
Search for the best online sellers, I prefer to
use PartsCargo because of their vast collection and amazing service and there
are plenty others out there. Find out which seller suits you and always
remember to check for perks like exclusive discounts and free shipping. Well,
after you find your perfect auto parts store online you can start with your DIY
Clutch Replacement.
