clutch/flywheel replacement

[logic]

Hi,

I know the common wisdom is to have the flywheel resurfaced every time you replace the clutch pressure plate or disc, but what about when all components are new? I'm planning on installing a new ACT 2600 w/street disc and a Fidanza flywheel this weekend, and while I'll spend what I need to in order to keep the components in safe condition, I'm not big on having work done to brand new components if it's just going to end up being a waste of money, especially with components that ought to be ready to go out-of-the-box for the price I'm paying.

Anything else you'd be concerned about before doing a complete clutch/disc/flywheel/throwout bearing swap besides what's in the major VFAQs (here, here, and here)? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

 

[4pistons]

Just be ABSOLUTELY SURE the step is correct on the flywheel. New does not mean correct. Here is RRE's guide to checking it;
http://www.roadraceengineering.com/clutchandflywheeltech.htm

Rick - '91 GSX

 

[logic]

Heh, I'd almost forgotten about posting this.

I've already been made painfully aware of the need to have it stepped properly by Kris over at AMS, so it appears I didn't need to post after all. Now I just need to find someone locally who can actually work with an aluminum flywheel; everyone I've spoken to so far has either had no idea what to do with it, or knows what to do with it but doesn't have the equipment on hand. Bah. If I can't find anything in the neighborhood, I'll probably give Mitch a call to see if he can do it (he would have been my first choice, but he's a helluva a drive away).

I really want the clutch and flywheel on the car this weekend (and the balance shafts out), so I've got enough time to break it in properly before the following weekend's autocross event.

Btw, is that YOUR piston in your sig picture? Ouch. So that's what excessive knock looks like...

 

[4pistons]

I would have figured that AMS could do that with no problem. You may not need to DO anything because it's new but I'd really want to be sure and measure it.

Btw, is that YOUR piston in your sig picture? Ouch. So that's what excessive knock looks like

Yes, It's mine. Maybe I should change my sign in name to 3pistons! That is what excessive knock COULD look like but it is actually from a broken valve. (It just made a small "crunch" sound and then quit.) I keep it to remind me not to go overboard and push too hard!

Rick - '91 GSX

 

[logic]

Nope, Kris@AMS was pretty clear about making sure I had someone step it and press in dowels; when I asked if they could do it, they said that any auto parts store with a machine shop could probably do it. When I called GRD in Naperville, they said they just send them over to Carquest. The guy I spoke to at Carquest in Aurora basically said, "Nice flywheel, my grinder would destroy it."

I've heard from a few people that flywheels from RRE are stepped appropriately before they're shipped, which could have saved myself a few headaches. From their website, though, it's not clear whose flywheels they're selling (their own, Fidanza, some other brand, etc...it almost looks like ACT's aluminum flywheel, but I'm not sure).

 

[4pistons]

There's a shop off of Route 59 and 119th street caller PER, Precision Engine Rebuilders (815-254-2333). They specialize in Hi Perf work. I have not used them for anything but they do machine work and may be able to help you. Just be sure to bring them the specs off of RRE's page.

Let me know if you do go there as I am curious about their abilities.

Rick - '91 GSX

 

[Vegas Smith]

I was wondering what the side effects would be if you changed a clutch and didnt machine the flywheel. That is what me and my brother did about a year ago and i have very low clutch engagment. Keep in mind that i dont have a worn pedal assembly, i have brand new clutch master/slave cylinders and a ss clutch line with performance clutch fluid. Any help would be appreciated.