Clutch Replacement

[fishkiller]

Has anybody replaced the clutch yet?
Did you have to remove the engine and transaxle as one unit?
Doesn't look like there is enough room the separate the bellhousing from the engine to me.
My plans were to install a light weight flywheel and clutch setup.
Has anyone done this?
Cheers
Fishkiller

[MadMaxedAtom]

I don't think you can service the clutch with the drivetrain in place.

As you have guessed by observation,there simply is not enough room to separate the two and do a proper job.

[bolus]

I tried to see a way to remove the transmission before pulling my engine just to make it easier.  But I could not see a way to remove it.  The lower engine mount is bolted to the transmission and the clearance is just too small around the frame.  To decouple from the engine and clutch, the transmission needs to be pulled out a few inches.  You could get it unbolted but then have no where to go. 

I would definitely seem like you would need to remove the whole engine to get that out. 

[fishkiller]

Not what I wanted to hear, but you guys have confirmed it.
To change the clutch, the engine and transaxle need to be removed as one unit.
Then, the transaxle and bell housing can be removed to gain access to the clutch.
Is anyone running a light weight flywheel?
If so, what brand and what clutch/pressure plate did you choose?
The stock 18.5lb iron flywheel is not doing a 1350lb car any favors in 1st through 3rd gears.

[silver]

Bolus, have you double checked your's to see if the flywheel and clutch are indeed stock pieces....I don't think anyone here actually ever asked Brammo if that was something they changed out or left stock did they?

[bolus]

Its a GM part so I assume it is stock.  The flywheel weighs 18.5lbs (on my bathroom scale)

[silver]

thanks for the confirmation!

[fishkiller]

What is the weight of the clutch and pressure plate?

[bolus]

I have not weighed it.  I'll do that tonight when I get home

[Mr.Woolery]

18.5lbs.  Sheesh. 

[bolus]

Here is an older thread but lists aftermarket clutches for the ecotec:
http://www.redlineforums.com/forums/per ... ght=clutch

[fishkiller]

That was a good thread and stated that a few companies had some early problems with their designs.
Centerforce has a new clutch, pressure plate and flywheel (#01010249) kit out, that will fit the LSJ for $816.
Centerforce is closed for the Holidays.
I did submit an e-mail requesting weight information, but will have to wait till the first of the year for an answer.
SPEC and Fidanza Aluminum flywheels are in the 8.0 -  8.5lb range
Exedy makes a swiss cheese chrome moly flywheel that is a tad heavier, but the outer area between the clutch and ring gear is punched.

[fishkiller]

For those of you that are wondering why I am so Interested in changing the flywheel.
The engine and transmission will be removed and separated to install the six-speed Santa brought me.
It's apart and I wanted to upgrade anything else that would entail removing the engine.
Can anybody add something else I should consider while it's apart.
Remote oil filter and cooler with bypass is being done.

 

[bolus]

Damn, you are really going crazy with your update too 

[fishkiller]

And the weight of the stock pressure plate and clutch is???
Bolus, where is that scale?