Replacing the clutch release arm... how hard is it?

[thenick]

Having been suffering from a very high bite point on the clutch for a while now, I think i'm going to add it to my list of things to do over winter. It had a new uprated clutch, master and slave cylinders in summer and the bite point has slowly risen since then until it is now right at the top of the pedal movement. After lots of head scratching I took it to Top Gear Automotive as they installed the clutch, and they diagnosed it as being a slightly bent release arm due to the higher force going through it with new springs all round and a stronger release spring than normal. Apparently the ball it pivots on pushes the metal out slightly, bending the arm but the new ones have a plate welded across the back to stop this happening.

Anyway they reckon it isn't too much of a tricky job and can be done in-situ as I have the later box with inspection hatch. Now i've found the part I need online and was just wondering what is involved in its replacement as it's not mentioned in the bible.. I assume it means draining the clutch and probably removing the slave cylinder to free it up but not sure from there so any advice would be great!

Nick

[neal1980]

ok i did this with the box in situ and it was a real bitch. It took hours to do due to space confinments and working out the best angle etc. Im still not happy with it now and will be taking the box back out. By all means have ago but you will see what I mean when you try to get a spanner in there.

Goodluck

[thenick]

Sounds pretty hellish... What's actually involved in removing/replacing the arm out of question and would it be helped by rachet spanners or the like? Top Gear reckoned a couple of hours labour tops so I could take it there but would quite like to try it myself unless it really is that horrible to do. I have seen in there before though and I agree there isn't a lot of space... might jack it up this weekend and have a look if I get time

[neal1980]

Well you might as well jack it up, I was quite limited with tools etc and the fact after about 15 mins Im throwing them around the drive! But it can be done and you should have a look. I remember I could only turn the spanner very little amounts at the time (bit like exhaust manifolds :-P). Just have ago if you have small hands :-p worst case you have to drop the box, i made the mistake of welding my bracket up and it does not sit correct, thats why im thinking of taking it out again. Drop the cylinder off 2 bolts, then your in there.

Will probably be fine with a standard replacment arm.

Go for it......

Neal