Clutch Replacement and Fitting in Tyne and Wear

A clutch kit is normally a friction plate, a pressure plate and a release bearing, and sometimes a centring tool and other small parts. They wear together, which is why they are usually replaced together.

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we fit clutches as a full job, not just a part swap. This page describes the fitting itself. Fault-finding on clutch systems and flywheel work have their own pages.

When replacement is the right answer

Replacement is the sensible route when the friction material has worn through or has been contaminated, or when the clutch can no longer hold the engine's power.

• Engine revs rise but the car does not accelerate to match
• A burning smell after hill starts or heavy traffic
• The bite point has crept very high or very low in the pedal travel
• Judder when pulling away
• Gear changes that grind even though the hydraulics check out

How the fitting is done

On most cars the gearbox has to be separated from the engine to reach the clutch. That means disconnecting driveshafts, linkages and mountings, supporting the engine and lowering or moving the gearbox. The old clutch is removed, the flywheel face is inspected, and the new clutch is fitted and centred before everything is reassembled.

We also look at the parts around it: the release mechanism, the input shaft splines, the crankshaft seal and the gearbox seal where they are accessible. Replacing a clutch is the time to deal with oil leaks that would otherwise ruin the new plate.

What affects the job

Vehicle design is the biggest influence. Some cars allow relatively easy access, while others need the subframe or other major parts moved. Dual-mass flywheels, found on many modern cars, may be worn or damaged and need replacing at the same time. We cover that on the flywheel page.

Parts are another variable. Kit quality and availability differ, and we will explain what we propose to fit. Do not be surprised if the estimate includes an allowance for items found on inspection, such as a leaking seal.

After the new clutch

A new clutch needs a gentle start. The friction surfaces bed in over the first stretch of driving, and you may notice the bite point shift slightly as this happens. Avoid heavy towing and hard launches until it has settled.

Ask us how to drive it in, and to explain anything we found. A good clutch fitting should leave you with a pedal that feels smooth and predictable.