Not sure what to do. any sugestions?

[ibrahim328i]

Hey guys,
I own a 96 328i coupe and have noticed that the clutch is starting to slip. i took the car to the mechanic and he said the in the bmw's that when you change the clutch you also have to replace the flywheel. I am worried as this may be quiet expensive. I would just like to know if you have to change the flywheel when changing the clutch?
Any idea's?

[White318i]

The E36's have a dual mass flywheel instead of a sprung clutch plate. Therefore the rubber in the flywheel that absorbs drive line shock wears over time. Also there is little if no allowance for machining of the flywheel which is necissary when fitting a new clutch.

So most shops to save them selves the hassel of comebacks will put in a new flywheel clutch and pressure plate so that it is all new and there is less chance of something making noise when it goes back together.

Your options are to find a shop prepared to machine the existing flywheel and fit a new clutch but they probably won't want to know you if it makes noise or fails prematurly.

Do it the factory way and replace everything or go the after market way and fit a solid flywheel and a sprung clutch. Then you can explore things like Lightened flywheels and different clutch compounds and still come out the other end cheaper than buying genuine parts!

Luke.

[bergie_318is]

well i think thats thread closed!

[One 328is]

Had to replace mine at around 100k miles.
Will just be easier to replace clutch and flywheel. While your there replace the clutch slave cylinder. I did not and had to go back to do it about 50 miles later.

[ibrahim328i]

thanks guys, i also want to know would it be a better idea to change the flywheel from a dualmass to a mono flywheel or should i get a after market flywheel installed. Also is it a good idea to install a heavy duity clutch or jst to get a stock clutch inslalled in the 328 coupe? When getting a new flywheel is it bettr to get my old one machined or a totally new one?

[White318i]

As above, there is little or no tollerence for machining on stock dual mass flywheels.
Generally the shock built into the hub only lasts as long as the first clutch so replacing it is the best option. For your model there is no genuine single mass flywheel, they are all aftermarket.

The question of heavy duty comes down to how you drive, where you drive and how deep your pockets are. If you just drive on sealed public roads and don't tow with the car than a standard setup will do just fine, i mean it lasted 100k alright didn't it?

Luke.

[One 328is]

Replaced mine with Sachs clutch and LW flywheel from Turner.

Turner Motorsport - BMW Performance Parts & BMW Accessories for BMWs & the New MINI at discount prices.

Have got many needed parts from them. Always good about getting me the items fast and what I needed over what I wanted.