Clutch Problem

[Stuart Mc]

Help, my 111S has just decided to tell me that the clutch has worn out... spinning wonderfully without much forward action. Having only done 21700 miles in the 3 1/2 years I have owned her I am a bit surprised! Anyone else had this problem? Is this the right for a 111S. What's more I was quoted around £600 just to change it? Any advise would be appreciated... Ta

[Bonce]

That does sound a bit premature, hard luck. Are you sure it's definately the clutch, not part of the pedal or release mechanism? I'm suprised it would just suddenly go like that, doesn't sound likely to me.

I'm afraid £600 is about right for new clutch parts and labour.

[Stuart Mc]

Cheers Bonce, did surprise me too. Hence the note. You can live with tyres and brakes, but clutches... they are like ex-girlfriends - they always come back to haunt you when you least expect it.

[DanH]

Is that what a clutch does when it wears out? I had one go on me once, and it prevented me changing gear, but it didn't stop it engaging if I forced the box. Your descrption sounds like something else.

Also you can get an AP-Racing road clutch for similar money to the lotus item which should be a bit more robust if you actually need to change it. Sinclaires in Romford can source and fit them.

[Elise-Shop]

Stu, with that mileage, I'd do some research first..

Here's the checklist:

- Check if you've got a braided clutch hose (if red plastic... that might be your problem)
- Check if the bracket on the gearbox (where the slave cylinder is fitted) is not broken. (had it on my car once )
- Get someone to push the clutch pedal and have a look at the slave cylinder. You should see a movement of approx. 1.5 cm If not, the main or slave cylinder might be faulty.

If all fails... it might be the clutch afterall...