Golf Mk 7 clutch replacement

[ksprat]

Afternoon all,

Recently l’ve come across a squeal when I release the clutch. It doesn’t happen very frequently, but when it does happen it will continue to do it most times that you release the clutch on that outing. I think it might be affected and more common in colder/dryer conditions. I’ve only noticed it when the car is in first gear however haven’t been able to try it in any other gear as it hasn’t done it since I’ve been looking into the issue.

From the research I’ve done I presume that the release bearing is the cause of the issue, does this sound right?

So having looked into the repair procedure for the release bearing I’ve decided to do the clutch/pressure plate at the same time. I have a couple of questions that I’m struggling with finding answers to between the Haynes manual and what I can find online.

First of all Haynes says that there are two types of clutch for the car (Golf mk7 2014 1.6 TDI 105hp with 5 Speed Manual transmission)

A Luk self adjusting clutch and a Sachs non adjusting clutch. Is one of these superior or is it just down to preference? I’ve also seen on websites there are other clutches available from brands such as Valeo and Blue Print, are they feasible options or just cheap low quality knock offs or are they just mis listed and won’t fit?

My second query which might not have any meaningful relevance for the job I’m doing, however I’m unsure, is the transmission codes. I understand from the manual that 0A4/0AF/0AH are the 5 speed manual codes, but how do I find out which is mine? I’ve looked at the sticker inside the service manual and that says that the transmission code is MWW, with no reference the the 3 codes above.

Apologies if these are incompetent questions, but thanks for taking the time to read this post, any response would be greatly helpful. Also any tips on clutch replacements from your experience would be great as this is my first!

Many thanks,

Kevin

[stevieturbo]

The best way to know exactly which clutch you need....is to compare to the one already fitted.

And while in there, it would be foolish not to change the DMF too if you intend keeping the car.

If you're doing this as a first time, and a novice...and likely in a driveway.....you're keen !

But hopefully if you give your reg no or VIN to a parts seller, you should get the correct parts for the car ok.
LUK, Sachs, Valeo are all OEM manufacturers so would all be good quality. I've never done a self adjusting cover, but I'm near sure they require some special tools or procedure during installation.

[stevemcs]

Just pop your reg into euro car parts and see what comes up, just have your engine code to hand. Its usually right, order the clutch, flywheel and flywheel bolts. Have a rear crank seal on standby just incase too. If you have never changed a clutch before you might want to consider paying for it, budget around £1000 supplied and fitted.

[ksprat]

Thanks for your responses. Okay I’ll replace the DMF too and have the seals on hand. According to the Haynes manual a new self adjusting clutch cover should come reset to the correct position. They say that it’s only when you’re refitting a used clutch plate that you need to adjust it. They also show a way of adjusting it using a hydraulic press, which saves having to use the special tools which I had a quote for for £480!!

I have thought about taking it into the garage to be done, however I’m keen to learn more about DIY mechanics, I’ve got permission to use a workshop and some knowledgeable mechanics to watch over (although they are better known for their tractor repairs). Hopefully between us we can figure it out and save a bit of money in the process

Another quick question, would a clutch kit normally come with an alignment tool which fits onto the crankshaft spline for lining up the clutch plate?

Thanks again

Kevin

[E-bmw]

ksprat said:

Another quick question, would a clutch kit normally come with an alignment tool which fits onto the crankshaft spline for lining up the clutch plate?

Thanks again

Kevin

Not normally, but they only take 5 min to make or a few quid to buy.

[GreenV8S]

ksprat said:

would a clutch kit normally come with an alignment tool which fits onto the crankshaft spline for lining up the clutch plate?

Not normally included with the clutch, but places selling clutches would probably sell them. If not, they're commonly available. I'd expect it to fit into the spigot bearing and the clutch plate splines. (Crankshaft itself is not splined.)

[ksprat]

Thanks again for your replies, I will get one of those ordered too