Got Clutch out, Now what???? (Update: Fianlly Done!)
 

Got Chaad here helping me...

We got the clutch out, but we're like 2 monkeys scratching our heads. How do we separate the release lever/bearing from the pressure plate.

We were going to just pry it off, but that didn't seem like the best idea... HELP!

Big C-clip on the back of the release bearing which holds the big washer-like thing on.

I forget exactly how I did it but I know but I destroyed the release bearing getting it separated.
2 close up pics of each side of the to bearing would help though someone should pipe in soon with a bit more technical explanation than I can provide.

pics.

Per Matt, 1st pic remove c clip from inner groove, then it should come apart.

Chris

That looks like the gap in the C-clip.

Like they said - get that c-clip out.

IIRC you need to put pressure on the bearing before the C clip will come out.

You recall correctly.

When I did mine I thought I inserted heavy gauge (12Awg) wire spacers to each of the 3 posts on the pressure plate after applying pressure to the plate. This would release the pressure on the release bearing enough that you can remove the c-clip and slide the bearing out. I did this prior to having a digital camera, sorry no pics.

Release Bearing
 

Have a look at how Jon928se replaced my release bearing, in the last two pictures in this section

http://www.928.org.uk/~ukkid35/clutch/index.html

As someone said early in the game, insert the spacers prior to PP removal .... no matter: a couple of big 'C' clamps and some wood blocks will do the trick. Just tighten down enough until the bearing housing can be spun .... and pull out the retainer.
BTW: there is something unsettling about a man that looks that happy with a crowbar in his hand .... :D .... asking for Swiss watch repair procedures ... :p
Good luck.

Aaahhh C-Clamps. God's gift to the auto mechanic. Make sure you have a bunch of sizes in the tool box for such occasions. :thumbup:

Update:

Laptop ran out of juice in the garage last night. Since, I'm replacing the bearings and pressure plate, I decided to use the dremel to get that ring off. Bada-bing bada-boom! Came right off. Now I still have 2 issues.

1. How to get the pilot bearing out? Do I remove the flywheel or do it in situ? What should I use to pull it? I tried to fab a puller using some left-over oak flooring and a bolt, but the 3/4" flooring just bent - and the bearing didn't budge. Maybe I need to use some angle iron?

2. How do I re-assemble the new clutch pack? Do I need the "shim" the new pressure plate?

Note: The ball-cup bushing, while still functional, had separated into 3 pieces. :eek: No wonder I could remove the release arm from the ball-stud so easily.

Saw this last night, but couldn't figure out what he was doing... until after I diassembled eveything. Now, it makes sense. Oh well. :banghead: