Replacing clutch on '97

[cxcheng]

Hi guys, I understand this is probably a beaten path, but I just like to get some more details before I do that.

I have a '97 with 63K+ miles. The clutch is stiff. Has been for the last 20+K but has gotten somewhat worse. The clutch engagement is very late, and it slips a little when I go full throttle on it hard. So I figure it's still to fix it, possibly at Stevens Creek Porsche because it is the most convenient.

Is there any issue with getting an aftermarket Sachs clutch kit than the official one? I figure I won't get the parts warranty. Is that a real concern?

What other things should I think about replacing at the same time?

- Lightweight flywheel?

- RMS?

I may not want to replace the flywheel but only get it resurfaced. However, there's a possibility that the flywheel maybe damaged. How best can I figure that out before I take it to the mechanic if at all?

[Tool Pants]

Sachs makes the oem clutch.

The flywheel is inspected once the transmission is out.

If the RMS does not leak you leave it alone.

[cxcheng]

Just purchased this on ebay. Hopefully it's fine.

Have you heard of Jon in Santa Clara? He charges $400 for the job.

[Tool Pants]

Do not know Jon. Send me whatever info you have and I will ask around. For $400 he can replace my 1997 clutch as well. But you go first.

[cxcheng]

Sure. I found him on craigslist. i think he is starting out on his own and that's why he's a lot cheaper until he establishes his reputation, but he maybe good. I'll ask for references and check out his facilities before I go for it.

Do not know Jon.  Send me whatever info you have and I will ask around.  For $400 he can replace my 1997 clutch as well.  But you go first.

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[ar38070]

Ask Tony at TCDesign for a quote. 408-956-1526. He is in Milpitas

or

Rob Dietsch at Dietschwerks 408-735-9287 who is in Sunnyvale.

Do not know how much they charge but they both do good work.

Tell them I sent you.

[cxcheng]

Ask Tony at TCDesign for a quote.  408-956-1526. He is in Milpitas

or

Rob Dietsch at Dietschwerks 408-735-9287 who is in Sunnyvale.

Do not know how much they charge but they both do good work.

Tell them I sent you.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Thanks for the info. Jon from craigslist was not reliable at all with his response. I called him several times and was only put on the voicemail. He never called me back.

I have decided to go with Don Autowerks in Campbell, also because it's closer to my home. Don used to be at CT Automotive. The number is (408) 871-9108. I will write up my experience.

BTW, I asked Don about lightweight flywheel. He discouraged me. He said the engine spins down really fast. For street driving, if you come to a halt quickly from say freeway driving, you may find that the ECU is unable to keep the engine from idling. Most people I've talked seem to caution me in one way or other, so it is not a go.

[cxcheng]

I just got my clutch fixed by Don at Don's Autowerke in Campbell close to Winchester and San Tomas at 1320 Dell Ave #E (408)871-9108. I can recommend him highly. He knows Toolpants too.

Cost: 6.5 hours of labor at $100/hr + parts.

The clutch I got from ebay which Toolpants posted is NOT right for my '97. I will post the photos with the differences. Had to get a clutch ordered. Don mentioned that the first clutch he ordered was the same. He had to provide them with my VIN# to get the right one. So there were changes between the '97 and '99. You have to be careful.

The right part# 986-116-911-01

The SACH reference on the box: KPR91601 which didn't fit my car.

I do have this kit now available for sale :)

[cxcheng]

Uploaded pictures showing the differences between the '97 and '99 clutches.

http://fancal.net/coppermine/thumbnails.php?album=2

[shay2n10]

Do you guys know where I can find the clutch kit for the 2.7L Boxster (2000). I can only find the 2.5L on ebay. I was also wondering if anyone knows how much the dealer charges for install? Or if anyone knows any private shops who can do it for a good price, here in LA?

[chrisj]

Regarding the lightened flywheel, can anyone confirm or deny this issue of the ECU not being able to maintain idle when lifting quickly off the gas?

Ask Tony at TCDesign for a quote.  408-956-1526. He is in Milpitas

or

Rob Dietsch at Dietschwerks 408-735-9287 who is in Sunnyvale.

Do not know how much they charge but they both do good work.

Tell them I sent you.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Thanks for the info. Jon from craigslist was not reliable at all with his response. I called him several times and was only put on the voicemail. He never called me back.

I have decided to go with Don Autowerks in Campbell, also because it's closer to my home. Don used to be at CT Automotive. The number is (408) 871-9108. I will write up my experience.

BTW, I asked Don about lightweight flywheel. He discouraged me. He said the engine spins down really fast. For street driving, if you come to a halt quickly from say freeway driving, you may find that the ECU is unable to keep the engine from idling. Most people I've talked seem to caution me in one way or other, so it is not a go.

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