Looks like I'm going to have to replace the clutch in my '06 CS, only 65,000 miles and I've not abused it at all, but it is shuddering on starts from a stop in 1st and slipping when I try to start in 2nd from a rolling stop. What should I look out for, and what should I replace besides the clutch disc, pressure plate and TO bearing?
Depending on the damage that was done, you may want to take a look at the flywheel as well and either get a new one or have it resurfaced. I have a clutch disk for sale in the classifieds if you're interested in that.
Thanks, I saw your ad. Right now I'm not sure I need a clutch, I'm taking the car to the dealer today and will know then. It isn't acting much like a slipping clutch, just a juddering sometimes at start. I'm thinking it may be a low idle or vacuum leak or something similar.
...and yet you are getting slippage under 'high' load, e.g., 2nd gear start. If you do end up replacing the disc, please be certain to resurface the flywheel. I would never do a clutch without doing so.
spm, cpa
I was about to ask a similar question when I came across this thread, so I hope you don't mind if I tag along with my post:
I had my CS in for service recently (TPC sensors out, covered by warranty), and the dealer told me that the clutch was stiff and that I would probably need to replace it soon (depending on my driving style). He wasn't being pushy about it, telling me that as long as it was only stiff and not slipping there was no problem, but to keep it on my radar. He also said that once it starts to slip, I should stop driving it ASAP because otherwise I could damage the flywheel and that makes the repair that much more expensive.
I bought the car with around 40K miles, and it now has 55K (pre-purchase inspection I had done also told me the clutch felt "stiffer than normal", but not bad). I could replace the clutch now, but since both the dealer and an indy mechanic told me it doesn't need it until it starts slipping, I am content to wait. My question is: how do I know when it is slipping? What will I hear/feel/etc.? The last manual transmission I owned I drove all through college and it never needed any clutch work, so I really don't know what symptoms to watch for (because of this I'm also assuming I am shifting correctly). I use the Cayman S as a daily driver, so I don't really notice the clutch getting stiffer or not, since there is no real time elapse between trips for me.
On a side note, once I finally do replace the clutch, I am considering ponying up the extra cash for an aftermarket clutch and a lightweight flywheel. Anyone have any thoughts on this? My rationale was that it would better handle any future track days, as well as the weekend mountain driving I do. I don't mind if this makes the clutch pedal a bit stiff (obviously), but I don't want to wreck the driveability of the car, as I do use it for commuting. Thanks in advance for your input.
You will know it is slipping when you step on the gas, and the revs climb but your speed doesn't increase (or doesn't increase like normal). It will occur more in the taller gears where the engine has less mechanical advantage against the car. You may also find yourself smelling burning clutch after getting on it.
