Clutch change DIY?

[TWKenny (formerly Ted)]

My 95 530i clutch started slipping a bit this morning. Is this something that I can do myself? I've done things like lower control arms on this car and a timing belt on my Volvo 850 GLT.
I appreciate the input!

[DABLACK]

I would advise you do it at an independant or a stealership (fairly big job) but if you want try this link:
http://www.bimmerdiy.com/e39

good luck


My 95 530i clutch started slipping a bit this morning. Is this something that I can do myself? I've done things like lower control arms on this car and a timing belt on my Volvo 850 GLT.
I appreciate the input!

[Jeff N.]

Sure you can do it. If you feel comfortable with this list, you can get it done.

- car in the air high on all 4 corners
- drop the entire exhaust at the headers
- disconnect the driveline and shift linkages
- disconnect the clutch slave cylinder
- undo the tranny housing torx bolts and rear cross member
- lower the ~ 90 lb unit out
- undo and replace the clutch pressure plate, friction disk and throwout bearing
- align the clutch disk
- work backwards up this list

If that's a comfortable list, you can do it. Parts of this are very much a 2 person job so it really helps if you have a good helper.

[Ross]

Yes, do it yourself. This is strictly a nuts and bolts project, albeit a dirty and heavy one.
Get the car up high on good stands, expect the usual rusted fasteners on the exhaust.

[nizmainiac]

clutch's are easy to do, go for it

[TWKenny (formerly Ted)]

I may give it a shot!
I've heard conflicting toughts on the flywheel resurfacing....I don't anticipate mine being bad, as I'm pretty easy on the clutch. Opinions?

[Ross]

If you are having clutch chatter now or have heated it up badly then it's probably not OK to use as is. Since you mention it just started slipping you're most likely OK, a good scuff with a sanding disk 150/200 grit or so GARNET paper to remove the glaze and button 'er up. Easy on the new clutch for a day too.

[nizmainiac]

iv'e never resuraced a flywheel only ever used 80 grit to clean the surface up, also while it's off check rear crank seal

[TWKenny (formerly Ted)]

Will do....thanks guys.