C5 clutch
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Joined: Mar 2002
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C5 clutch
I've been looking at C5's for the last 6 months, and I can't believe how much more refined they are than my 93 C4 6 speed which I've owned for 5 yrs. I driven 1/2 doz C5's the last couple of months but they were all automatics, I had no intention of buying them, but test drove just to get the feel of the car. Last night I drove a 99 FRC with just 9k miles and I really liked the car with one exception. I didn't like the clutch feel, it seemed very light, certainly lighter than what I used to and also the engagement seemed very close to the top. Again, not what I'm used to. The car doesn't seem to have been abused but I do have concerns about the clutch. Is this normal operation for a C5 clutch or should I keep looking?
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Joined: Mar 2002
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Re: C5 clutch (9T3JIM)
Generally speaking, C5 clutches are pretty light by their power standards. Even the Z06 clutch which is a bit beefier is still pretty light.
If you really like the car, don't let a $500-$800 clutch stop you. Besides, you can upgrade to Z06 specs later.
I would take it out on a hot day with some heat soak, and try some shifts at 5700 rpms through the gears (If the owner will let you) but this is a surefire way to see if the clutch is slipping or sticking. Even if it is, the new slave, etc. replaced will still be about 1K.
If you really like the car, don't let a $500-$800 clutch stop you. Besides, you can upgrade to Z06 specs later.
I would take it out on a hot day with some heat soak, and try some shifts at 5700 rpms through the gears (If the owner will let you) but this is a surefire way to see if the clutch is slipping or sticking. Even if it is, the new slave, etc. replaced will still be about 1K.
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 4,653
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From: North Royalton, OH
St. Jude Donor '06-'07
Re: C5 clutch (9T3JIM)
Yeah, the clutch is very light, and the Z clutch is REALLY light - it's surprising. Sounds like you have a "normal" clutch in the car you're looking at. LOVE the FRC's!
[Modified by BSiegPaint, 10:43 AM 8/28/2003]
[Modified by BSiegPaint, 10:43 AM 8/28/2003]
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 220
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From: A little place called Macungie PA
Re: C5 clutch (9T3JIM)
I have an '01 6-speed and my clutch feels very light also but it grabs almost right away within the first 1/4 of it's total travel. I would think the friction point could be something you can adjust but I don't know how off the top of my head.
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Joined: Feb 2003
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From: Plano Texas
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Re: C5 clutch (MiamiDave)
Generally speaking, C5 clutches are pretty light by their power standards. Even the Z06 clutch which is a bit beefier is still pretty light.
If you really like the car, don't let a $500-$800 clutch stop you. Besides, you can upgrade to Z06 specs later.
.... the new slave, etc. replaced will still be about 1K.
If you really like the car, don't let a $500-$800 clutch stop you. Besides, you can upgrade to Z06 specs later.
.... the new slave, etc. replaced will still be about 1K.
Advanced
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 71
Likes: 1
From: orleans ontario
Re: C5 clutch (9T3JIM)
I went through the same thing when I bought mine. It sounds like you do have a "normal" C5 clutch, and you will get used to the lack of feel and the funny free travel at the top before anything happens. The clutch is not adjustable and this might be the only car that has a slave cylinder that can't be removed without pulling out the entire transaxle. Thanks a lot GM :banghead:
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Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
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From: Savannah GA
Re: C5 clutch (9T3JIM)
The light feel sounds normal, but mine engages in about the first 1/4 of travel too... I am amazed at how much lighter it is than my LT1 Z28's clutch is every time I drive it :yesnod:
[Modified by ChevyChadZ28, 9:08 PM 8/30/2003]
[Modified by ChevyChadZ28, 9:08 PM 8/30/2003]
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Re: C5 clutch (9T3JIM)
The clutch in my '99 was light and so is the one in my '00. Not much effort needed to push it in. If you like the car, have a competent mechanic check it over for you.
