wgharper

Hi everyone -

Looking for some guidance from some of you DMF/LFW experts. I recently purchased a '96 993 C4, and am trying to figure out if I need to replace the flywheel (without performing major surgery). I don't have any history on the car (long story), and I have some "noises" that could be either an LFW or failing DMF based on extensive research (thank you "search" function!) Here are the details:

• Metallic rattle/clatter under load below 2500 RPM
• Slight rattle at idle, goes away when the clutch is pushed in
• No performance issues or CELs
• Car appears to idle pretty smoothly

At first I thought it HAD to be the DMF, but my reading tells me it is possible that the PO installed an LFW. I also have noted that starting out in the car is trickier (I stalled it more) than in my previous 965 or other cars I've owned.

So, is there any hope? More importantly, is there any way (short of dropping the engine and tranny) to find out if I have an LFW or DMF?

Thanks in advance!

ed devinney

LWF!

Where in VA are you? We can compare side by side, but I'm 99 44/100% sure.

Mark in Baltimore

My vote is LWF, too.

Mike J

If a DMF is failing one thing I have noticed is a rattle when you kill the engine. If the clutch is out and you stop the engine you will hear a rattle. Restart the car and do it again with the clutch in...do you get the same noise?

I have not noticed any difference starting off with the DMF vs LWF....maybe I am not sensitive enough.

Cheers,

Mike

JasonAndreas

You can sorta tell by looking at the starter ring gear (shine a flashlight up at the flywheel speed reference sensor). If you have a LWF the ring gear will be shiny (aluminum). If you have DMF, the ring gear will be slightly rusted (the same amount as the flywheel).

wgharper

Thanks for your input - I'm really hoping that it is just the LWF. So far, I've tried what Mike suggested and listened for rattle on shut-down. So far, so good: no rattle after several tries.

Will try Jason's suggestion once next.

Land Jet

I used to hear my LWF on the 993 at idle, it kind of reminded me of a washing machine, but you would never know it was there under load. It sure revved up quick.

Analog Theory

+1 LWF