S4 grinding clutch
05-09-2004, 05:09 AM
#1
Pro
Thread Starter
S4 grinding clutch
'87 S4, 5-speed manual, 65k miles, one owner, full service history.
Upon releasing the clutch (both straight line, as well as with wheels turned), car moves off with some grinding noises from the clutch - but only until it is fully engaged, after which it is entirely quiet. You can "feel the noise" in the entire car, even in your body (a little bit).
(it's a bit difficult to explain!)
If I put on the handbrake, and then slowly release clutch from 1st gear, there does not appear to be any slippage.
Ideas or experience anyone, what could cause this noise? Many thanks!
Upon releasing the clutch (both straight line, as well as with wheels turned), car moves off with some grinding noises from the clutch - but only until it is fully engaged, after which it is entirely quiet. You can "feel the noise" in the entire car, even in your body (a little bit).
(it's a bit difficult to explain!)
If I put on the handbrake, and then slowly release clutch from 1st gear, there does not appear to be any slippage.
Ideas or experience anyone, what could cause this noise? Many thanks!
05-09-2004, 08:49 AM
#2
Drifting
Join Date: Nov 2001
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Release bearing?
Or could be some problem with the friction material on the clutch plate; e.g. unevenly worn or a bit has rolled up
Do you get the same problem when you dis-engage the clutch? If not, more likely to be the plate.
I had a similar problem which was due to the friction material completely ripped off from one plate (I have the dual plate clutch)
Looks like you would have to take out to check it
Marton
Or could be some problem with the friction material on the clutch plate; e.g. unevenly worn or a bit has rolled up
Do you get the same problem when you dis-engage the clutch? If not, more likely to be the plate.
I had a similar problem which was due to the friction material completely ripped off from one plate (I have the dual plate clutch)
Looks like you would have to take out to check it
Marton
05-09-2004, 10:29 AM
#3
Burning Brakes
Join Date: Apr 2004
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I had the same problem. I had the entire clutch assy. replaced. Turns out the pilot bearing had discinagrated. It took the bellhousing and clutch fork with it from too much movement. Replace ASAP and save yourself a few bucks. Ron
05-09-2004, 02:56 PM
#4
Pro
Thread Starter
Many thanks for sound advice. The car is for sale through P-dealer, I will try and negotiate cost-price for the clutch assembly - I am quite confident something is really in need for replacement there. If I get the deal through, I will get back with a detailed update on what caused the grinding/vibration.
05-24-2004, 05:29 PM
#5
Pro
Thread Starter
S4 grinding clutch - update
The entire clutch is out, these are the finds:
First of all, the clutch plate has life left in terms of remaining material - but with thin cracks in it, originating from the small holes, direction of the cracks (as best as I can explain it) are same as the circular plate (similar to what might be seen on drilled brakediscs) - not perpendicular. Replacement is ordered.
Second, the release bearing is worn and is ordererd as well.
Third, it is likely the sleeve cylinder needs replacing - when depressing the clutch pedal, the last third-or-so of the throw goes in steps with a faint squeeking sound; I guess the worn release bearing adds to this as well.
I requested the pilot bearing changed as well.
Good news is, pressure plate looks like new on the contact surface.
The flywheel contact surface looks smooth, but has a small "high" in the middle, consistently around (very faint; can feel it when letting the finger over it). I'm not experienced with such, but the P-car-dealer supervisor in charge explained this "high" is not a problem at all, and that the new clutchplate will fit perfectly after just very short time of driving.
First of all, the clutch plate has life left in terms of remaining material - but with thin cracks in it, originating from the small holes, direction of the cracks (as best as I can explain it) are same as the circular plate (similar to what might be seen on drilled brakediscs) - not perpendicular. Replacement is ordered.
Second, the release bearing is worn and is ordererd as well.
Third, it is likely the sleeve cylinder needs replacing - when depressing the clutch pedal, the last third-or-so of the throw goes in steps with a faint squeeking sound; I guess the worn release bearing adds to this as well.
I requested the pilot bearing changed as well.
Good news is, pressure plate looks like new on the contact surface.
The flywheel contact surface looks smooth, but has a small "high" in the middle, consistently around (very faint; can feel it when letting the finger over it). I'm not experienced with such, but the P-car-dealer supervisor in charge explained this "high" is not a problem at all, and that the new clutchplate will fit perfectly after just very short time of driving.
05-25-2004, 01:05 AM
#6
Burning Brakes
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I just had the same problem a month ago. I bought a whole new clutch set up from 982 Int'l along with a clutch fork. Turns out all it was was the pilot bearing was toast. The noise you discribed was identical to mine. I change the clutch for nothing but at least I know everything in there is new. Hope this helps.
