Slipping the clutch is the biggest killer. Folks> (archive)

Speakign of clutches below, what sorts of things will kill a clutch? I drive manual but am not really familiar with the inner workings of a clutch.
Also, what sorts of tell-tale signs can I look for in one that is nearing the end of its life-cycle?
Does normal everyday driving contribute significantly to wear? UMP mentioned "brisk" driving. Is that like launching off the line of just shifting quickly? I've know "slipping" your clutch is bad, but don't know the reasons...
If anyone has some info, lemme know. And how long should I expect it to last? Thanks!
John L.

who ride the clutch cause a lot of premature wear. Slipping the clutch to hold your position on a hill is bad mojo. Having to slip the clutch to start off on a hill regularly is bad. When a clutch is slipping, it generates a lot of heat. If enough heat is generated, it will scorch or "hot spot" the flywheel. This will cause the clutch to slip more which will cause more heat....etc. Slipping also causes the clutch plate to wear. The sooner it wears, the sooner you'll have to replace the clutch. BTW, the way a clutch works is similar to brakes. There's a disc, that's made of similar material to brake shoes/pads. The disc is clamped between the flywheel and the pressure plate, both made of steel. The springs in the pressure plate are also adversely affected by heat.

There you go....Clutches 101

Jay

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ E36 M3 Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.