Which Clutch/Flywheel design?

[TomCat]

I have a 2000 996 C2. I need to replace the clutch. I have searched but not found much on the actual type and brand of clutch to install. The car is stock. It is a daily driver and will see autocross use as well. I also plan to teach my 17 year old daughter how to drive it. (Yes, I am crazy...but I want her to be a skilled driver...we did ice racing in the winter and will autocross this summer). I have done this type work before and have a well equipped shop. So my questions:

1. Dual vs. single mass - It seems to be about the same price for both styles. I am intrigued with the aluminum for the obvious reduction in rotating mass. Downside I am aware of is noise at idle and possibly ease of drivability. So what do you recommend?

2. Bone stock versus the Stage 2 or Stage 3 upgrades on the clutch kit? Recommendations?

3. I like the offerings from Patick Motorsports, Spec Clutch and Speedmerchants - any feedback on these shops and their offerings? Patrick is the most expensive but balance all the parts. Speedmechants have a very good deal on aluminum flywheels - any issues with these? How about Spec Clutch?

4. Regarding RMS replacement - I hear if it is dry, don't touch it. Agree?

5. Regarding IMS bearing replacement from LN Engineering - any experience with this? Recommendations?

6. Any other advice before I tear into this project?

Thanks in advance.

[JFP in PA]

Unless you like clutch chatter everytime you let the pedal up, and the potential for engine damage, I’d stay away from the aluminum one piece flywheels and stick with a dual mass.

Anytime you have the clutch out is an excellent time to upgrade to the latest RMS and do the LN IMS update as well. The latest RMS appears to have ended the earlier problems, and as it costs less than $20, replacing it is a no brainer. While the LN IMS cost a bit more, it is still one of the single most important updates you can do, both from a peace of mind and resale perspective.

[TomCat]

Thanks for the reply. I am aware of the potential for gear box chatter, however the potential for engine damage is new to me. Can you please elaborate on the potential engine damage that can be caused by an aluminum flywheel? What specifically can happen?

[JFP in PA]

Very simple: The dual mass flywheel is the only torsional and harmonic dampening device on these engines; its removal can (and has) led to failures in the rotating assembly, notably crankshaft cracking and complete failures.

Several of the premier Porsche engine builders will only use lightweight single mass flywheels if the entire rotating assembly (including the flywheel itself, as several have been found to be out of balance to start with) is being subjected to a full harmonic balancing prior to engine assembly. Some people will say that "they have used one with no problems"; but repeated failures indicate that they may have just been lucky. Unless you are going to balance the assembly, I'd skip the single mass lightweight unit………….

[TomCat]

OK, well that is certainly graphic enough. Thanks for the information.