320D E90 generic clutch options?

[Jimi]

Hi all

I hope I've chosen the correct forum - I need some info on generic clutches for my vehicle.

The problem with the car is this: when depressing or releasing the clutch there is a grinding noise. It's not there while in gear or out of gear, though, only when engaging or releasing. There is also a slight shudder when taking off in 1st gear.

According to one mechanic, there are no generic clutches for my 320D E90, and I should expect to pay at least R20k (includes labour). But he says I can still drive it for a good while before I get any real problems.

Another tells me total clutch failure is imminent, and that he may have a generic flywheel but he'll have to check if it's the same first. R7350 for the generic flywheel and clutch kit, otherwise R15k for the BMW flywheel plus another R3150 for a generic clutch. He tells me the thrust bearing (not sure if I heard right...?) is gone.

These two stories are different enough for me to wonder what the true answer is. Does anyone have any info for me, or can help me out?

Any help much appreciated!
James

 

[RAArmstrong]

Get the LUK clutch kit, they're the OEM manufacturer in anycase. Oh and don't go to BMW for it... Rather don't buy cheap on this. The 320D makes alot of torque and if you get a cheap clutch you're just going to end up replacing it sooner as its worn or warped, etc. :thumbs:

Goedkoop is duurkoop

 

[Jimi]

Get the LUK clutch kit, they're the OEM manufacturer in anycase. Oh and don't go to BMW for it... Rather don't buy cheap on this. The 320D makes alot of torque and if you get a cheap clutch you're just going to end up replacing it sooner as its worn or warped, etc. :thumbs:

Goedkoop is duurkoop

Thanks very much. I've asked the mechanic to get me a quote on the LUK kit.

 

[ClassicB]

Get the LUK clutch kit, they're the OEM manufacturer in anycase. Oh and don't go to BMW for it... Rather don't buy cheap on this. The 320D makes alot of torque and if you get a cheap clutch you're just going to end up replacing it sooner as its worn or warped, etc. :thumbs:

Goedkoop is duurkoop

Thanks very much. I've asked the mechanic to get me a quote on the LUK kit.

Call your local spares shop for pricing as well, just in case your mechanic is trying to pull a fast one.

Keep us posted on what the actual cause was and if the clutch replacement fixed it.:thumbs:

 

[Jimi]

Will do, thanks Prini. I've phoned Autozone and they've given me a price of R8600 on the LUK clutch with the flywheel. I asked my mechanic to quote on the LUK part too, although he didn't sound too impressed to be told what to do - or maybe I'm just imaging that...

 

[Jimi]

Hi all - just wanted to say thanks for the help. Turned out the LUK was a perfect fit and ended up only costing me R8400.

The problem was the thrust bearing, and the clutch itself turned out to be in ok shape still, but they replaced the lot. I'm assuming that's standard practice?

Anyway, thanks again!

 

[sash]

its the recommended practice as you dont want the replaced part to become the strongest link, which will then highlight the weakest link and result in failure.