ok two things, if my clutch is slipping do i need to get a whole clutch kit to replace it or just a new clutch plate? and can anyone give me step by step instructions on how to change it? ive changed a clutch b4 but it was a corrola and it was that long ago i cant remember how

Okay - an answer to the first question.

You wont know what needs to be replaced until you have the flywheel off and the clutch in pieces. You may get away with just a clutch plate but its rarely that alone. However, the clutch plate is only part of the procedure - there is a seal over the crankshaft that stops oil getting onto the clutch plate.

This wears over time and often the seal that the problem as it lets oil onto the clutch plate causing it to slip. So just just replacing the clutch plate wont fix the problem. Its always good practice to replace that seal every time the flywheel is off.

Now - replacing a clutch is not difficult but you do need some special tools - without them it becomes a mamoth task. The actually "how to" is well described in mini service manual with progessive step by tep drawings and photos. There is a right way and a wrong way so get a manual, read it and make the decision on if you can do it or not. A mini is different to a toyota.

Mike

uhh, i take it thats the seal that caused my clutch to slip..:


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Well - you crtainly have oil inside the clutch cover that is not normally there or supposd to be there. It may not be the problem in itself but its certainly wasn't helping.

Always, always replace the clutch oil seal when replacing a clutch - they are less than ten dollars each.

Mike

yeah absolutely will. is the clutch still any good to use when its been covered with all that oil. Clutch still looks pretty fresh, and can still see machining marks on flywheel, so it hasn't been worn a lot. thanks.

I wouldn't trust the plate no matter how well you cleaned it after a soaking with oil. Its just not worth the trouble of taking the engine apart again if it continues to slip. The plate and flywheel will be fine after a clean with solvent, but the clutch plate itself should be replaced. They are reasonably priced in any case.

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SooperDooperMiniCooperExpertEngineering

All garage work involves equal measures of enthusiasm, ingenuity and a fair degree of irresponsibility.

yeah ok. no worries. thanks for that.