ammo_collector

Upon reading good feedback from a Rennlist member about John's Foreign Service in Laguna Niguel, CA, I had Russ replace my clutch and install a LWF.

Not counting a wrong shaft tube that was delivered, it took Russ only 5 hours to do the job. No engine removal and no issues regarding idling. Clutch is light as a Honda now and although not as a drastic difference as expected, the engine does spool up faster.

Verdict? LWF recommended and if you're nearby, definitely call up Russ.

epj993

Ben, just curious but what labor rate does Russ charge (excluding parts)? I may have to get this done in the relatively near future.

Pete Lech

Hey, nice looking cars guys. We should have a Arena Red section at the next Orange Coast Region Breakfast Club at Original Mikes on November 5th.

AOW162435

Did you have a different spec clutch installed? I ask because I thought most owners install a LWF due to issues with the dual-mass flywheel and the ability for the engine to spin up faster with the lighter flywheel? How would this change the 'feel' of the clutch to be lighter?


Andreas

KASH '95 993

AOW162435,

A new pressure plate usually make the clutch feels a little lighter.

chris walrod

New pressure plates often restore what little effort the clutch should offer. This in addition to a new slave cylinder and at least regreased needle bearings and cross shaft. A new t/o bearing should take out any pulsing one feels in the clutch pedal. Pilot bearings always seem to be in great condition, however.

Rick Lee

I'm still incredibly curious about replacing the cross shaft with the engine in the car. I know ViperBob explained it last week and I don't think I need to pull my tranny anytime soon, since I already have a LWF/RS clutch. But I almost feel like doing it again just to say I did it. Anyone in the DC area planning on DIY'ing a LWF anytime soon? I really want to do this.

chris walrod

As Bob mentioned, the most difficult part is reinstalling that shaft with needle bearings and outer races without dropping them inside the bellhousing. Then theres the little plastic plug....

Rick Lee

Ok, maybe this has been covered here before and sorry for the hijack. But is there a cross shaft update kit with brass bushings like for the early G50 Carreras? Didn't Porsche learn their lesson with needle bearings in this area? Unfortunately, I was not allowed to DIY my LWF by the insurance co. and shop. So I didn't see whether they reinstalled the old set up or an updated kit. Wouldn't it be vastly easier with bushings?

chris walrod

I typically replace these needle bearings with new needle bearings. The old, worn ones, at least the ones I have examined, seem to still have life in them.

ammo_collector

Not sure about the hourly rate, I was charged under 500 for the labor and the original estimate called for about 5 hours of labor.

viperbob

That plug can be a pain. I have found 2 tools that seem to work best for me. One is a duck bill plier (MAC tools) and a long needle nose (Costco $15 for 5 with various angles). The is not much space in there, and even less on the outside when installing in the car.

Go for it Rick. The shear joy of knowing you did it will give you a big smile. Just take your time.

nile13

I wish we could get rates like that. I'm being quoted $800 for a clutch and LWF job locally.

chris walrod

Snap-On's duck bill plier works well for things like this. Bob, that is the perfect application for such a tool

JasonAndreas

$800 is a fair price (all you need is one seized oil line and a 2 1/2 hour engine drop turns into a 4 hour nightmare) but if you have garage space, beer and don't mind getting a little dirty it could be done for less $$$ (and in an afternoon).