vw clutch?, direct swap? Options

[tat2dphreak]

is there a VW clutch disc that is a direct swap for the more expensive porsche product?

yes, I know that the part is only about $130... I'm Cheap! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

[tat2dphreak]

When I replace the clutch I usually find that the flywheel needs resurfacing, and this is a precision operation. The height of the PP mounting surface, over the working surface, must be brought back to spec after the working surface has been renewed. This means that the amount of wear plus machining of the working surface must be removed from the mounting surface, otherwise the pressure plate cannot exert the proper pressure on the disc. This may mean you will have to shim the pivot ball on the tranny.

Whenever I pull the flywheel, I replace the crank seal, pilot bearing, felt seal, O-ring, big 5 hole lock washer, and the five bolts. Loctite the bolts, you don't need a failure like I had one time.

I also replace the plastic ball cup in the throw-out arm, and often replace the bushings for the throw-out bearing.

I usually have the pressure plate rebuilt at the same time. It depends on the wear of the diaphragm spring and on the working surface. It can be a major exercise, but you only want to do it once. Using worn parts can cause a premature failure of the new parts and that will cost a lot more than doing the entire job right the first time.

on the fly wheel... how will I know if it needs to be resurfaced? the engine I am pulling the flywheel off has had a fairly recent clutch job(supposedly, according to the PO) and the clutching mechanism was working fine... I am putting it onto an engine that was very recently rebuilt, so I don't think I'll need the rear seal, I plan to do all of the other stuff you mentioned though:

pilot bearing, felt seal, O-ring, big 5 hole lock washer, and the five bolts. Loctite the bolts, you don't need a failure like I had one time.

I bought an extra pressure plate(used) and T/O bearing (used).. the press. plate looks almost new, only shows signs of wear on the teeth, less than 1/4" looks worn. should this be rebuilt? replaced?

the T/O bearing looks new as well... spins freely.

if the flywheel needs resurfaced, who can do this? or should I just buy a new one?