New clutch...help needed

[mwheatley]

Hi All,

I have just been informed that I need a new clutch on my van. Does anyone have a recommendation as to where I could get one from, and how much I could expect to pay both for the part & for fitting? In fact, if anyone can recommend a mechanic in the Staffs area that would also be appreciated.

I have a 1990 1.6td.

Many thanks in advance.

Matt

[andisnewsyncro]

Brickwerks for the parts- around the £90 mark, depending on which one. GSF might be a little cheaper (?) but I tend to trust Baxter's choice of suppliers and stock.

Mainstream garage price will depend on their understanding and experience of these vans; my local mechanics charged me £350 ish last month to do mine; I don't have the space, tools, experience, motivation or confidence to do that sort of thing myself.

Have a word wit Si - toomanytoys - re mobile work? He put his 1st advert on here about 2 days after I'd got my van back !!

[mwheatley]

Hi Andy,

Thanks for that, part cost sounds fine, mechanic cost sounds poo! Where could I get contact details for Si, would I need to PM him or does he have an advert somewhere?

Matt

[andisnewsyncro]

I know mine was pricey but it's a Syncro so a bit more involved - bits to take off, props shaft etc

Drop Si a pm or give him a bellhttps://club8090.co.uk/forum/memberlist. ... file&u=139 and see what he says, but there's also the distance thing, my geography's not too hot though. (There might be phone number on the help list too )

Good luck

[CovKid]

Lets be honest, its not the nicest job in the world to do on a T25. Still do my own but theres always a heavy sigh beforehand. Its the weight, grit, grunge etc etc...

[Ian Hulley]

It's not mentally challenging but it's heavy work and can be opening a can of worms on the hydraulic side of things. Invest in a good clutch centering tool or a s/h input shaft and put a dry day aside ... should take 4 hours (me and T'onion ...Bless im) had our gearbox out in 23 minutes from the whools stopping but owt can turn ugly first time out.

Ian.

[Red Westie]

All depends on hourly rate...your average main VW dealership will charge you £75 an hour plus the dreaded. A smaller back street garage is going to be much less (£35 - £50 per hour plus Vat) Around 3 hours labour (they have air tools, car lifts, gearbox jacks) unlike the guy on his back outside the house. Plus around £95 for the three piece clutch kit.
Those in the know have there own short cuts with 2wd clutches, I've heard they can be done in under an hour, I guess this means leaving stuff connected, levering apart and working through the gap. Never tried it myself but I know it can be done.
Martin

[mwheatley]

Thanks for the replies everyone...It looks like my wallet will be somewhat lighter by the end of this little episode then!!

Matt

[CovKid]

Unless you do it yourself or can find a VERY keen mate. It is dooable at home though. I'd definately fit my own clutch (even if its not a job I relish) - simply because of the labour charges attached. This time of year its not too bad but in winter I might be tempted to give the job to a garage. Nothing worse than heavy and awkward than COLD heavy and awkward.

[mwheatley]

Hopefully I've struck lucky with this one!!! I've ordered the new clutch from Brickwerks, £106 incl of VAT & next day delivery...cheapest price out of the three avenues I tried by a good £20, thanks Mr Baxter . I have also found a local "traditional" mechanics (father & son team, been going for years) who have quoted me £120 to fit!!!!!! I presume they are basing it on 4hrs at £30 an hour. This is in stark contrast to the other two mechanics I called who both quoted £300+...I must say that neither of these were Toomanytoys who was recommended but I haven't heard from yet, must be away. I need this done quick as I will be away in the van later next week so couldn't wait too long for a reply.....sorry Toomanytoys!

Anyway, I will let everyone know if the new clutch ends up working, I may not let you know if dad & son have put it in upside down !!!

Matt

[Aidan]

Simon TMT is currently on his estate in France
Back next week I think once the grass is all cut and the house fixed up

[CovKid]

Yep, very important that its a garage that does have some idea of how they're changed. In case they're not aware, driveshafts off gearbox, then drop gearbox, hoses and cables permitting. Seen garages do it the hard way and try and remove engine....