How do you change the clutch in a C5?
 

I mean how big of a job is it?
Do I need any really special tools,
Any tricks to doing it?
I would really love a good procedure for doing this.
Feel free to post links to other threads if you find them.

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (JMon)
 

Jmon:

Unless you have a lift and a tranny lift I would not attempt this as a DIY project. You have to remove the exhaust system, center tunnel cover, transmission and torque tube allong with the entire rear suspension. Plus you may have to loosen the exhaust manifolds. Only then will you have access to the clutch and pressure plate. It's a big job and is why the shops charge a big price for the install.

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (gonbad)
 

I've got a trany jack and other jacks. I was able to get the car up enough in the air to change out the exhaust, and I rebuilt the automatic transmission in my Firhawk a few years ago, So I'm not scared of big jobs, Just as long as I can complete it. I would hate to get 1/2 way through and not be able to get something right.
If I can do it in <20 hours I would be happy.
I just really need to know the procedure and any shotcuts that have been found over the years.....

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (JMon)
 

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zerothread?id=367766

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (gmblack3)
 

Darn that sounds like a tough job. Definatley something I wouldnt want to tackle on my own!

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (BrightRed C5 SWFL)
 

I am on my second day of clutch swap. So far so good. I am almost ready to drop the tranny and differential. I am only working roughly 1 hour a day because of work. I would say if your a DIY guy go for it. This swap is not bad at all(so far). This swap is much easier than my AWD Turbo Eclipse. :yesnod:
Phillip :cheers:

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (Phil97SVT)
 

Phil97 What procedures are you using? Know of any tricks? You going to be taking pictures?

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (JMon)
 

Too much for me. I am having Ken Futchner at Tom Jumper Chevy put mine in as we speak...well, type.

Ken quoted me 8-10 hours for reference(clutch/flywheel/adj. master). Of course he is probably the best corvette mechanic in the SE though.



[Modified by C5-VERT, 11:58 AM 8/21/2002]

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (JMon)
 

You'll need a sping compressor or a way to improvise. Also a clutch alignment tool and an alignment rack (that can be farmed out). Its a big big job on your back. I don't think you could do it in less than 20 without help. $400 bucks did not sound bad after I researched it and found someone who I trusted to do the work.

Joel

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (C5-VERT)
 

Hey C5-Vert how much is Tom-Jumper charging you for the labor? What clutch setup did you use? Also you going to the show this weekend?

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (JMon)
 

Well, it can range from $700-1000 depending if they run into any problems. If I was just doing a clutch it would at most be $700. But I am doing the clutch/Aluminum flywheel, mcloed adj. master, Z06 slave, and rear diff.

The setup I am going with is a:

Star Spec III Carbon clutch
Fidanza Aluminum Flywheel
Mcloed Adj. Master Cylinder
Z06 Slave

I did about 2 months of research and this is the setup that I feel will benefit me the most for my setup. The clutch is good for 600+rwhp and the pedal feel is stock. There are several people running this setup and love it. Of course I looked at all clutches and several people talked me into this one. I hope they are right!

What show is this weekend?

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (C5 Hardtop)
 

A spring compressor is not required. If you have a great selection of tools to use, long extensions, 90* swivel sockets, etc it's very do-able in less than 20 hours. Just take your time ;)

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (C5Noir)
 

If you can do that job for the first time in 20 hrs or less, you are the man :yesnod:

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (JMon)
 

:eek:

http://www.vetteguru.com/misc/drivetrain_removed01.jpg

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (C5-VERT)
 

Correct me if I'm wrong but is not his name David F?

Yes he is one of the best vette techs around. I have an appointment with him on monday to look at my tranny, rear diff leak and get started on a oil consumption.

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (gmblack3)
 

:D Yes I am wrong. I had the name Ken Fitchner in my head from order some parts. Yes, I meant David. Sorry!

[spelling off]He was re-ringing a c5 today, what a coincidence![/spelling off]


[Modified by C5-VERT, 1:16 AM 8/23/2002]

Re: How do you change the clutch in a C5? (C5-VERT)
 

A clutch change on a lift is a 3-4 hour job! I've done four of them so thats a real time. Without a lift is a real back breaking project. The rear cradle has soem weight to it and will be two guys laying on your backs. The next pain in the rear, on the ground will be when you remove the rear end/transmission torque tube assembly. There's a few pounds :lol:

You don't have to remove the rear part of the exhaust, just wire it up and leave it in place. Also just remove the axles out of the carrier. Leave them in the hub.

When going back in don't to put too much load on the input shaft of the torque tube. The input shaft needs to spline into the clutch disk very carefully. When you have a lift it slides in pretty good.

Watch your fingers....lots of places to get pinched.

Let is know how long it took!

Good Luck