| E
Type Clutch Replacement |
|
Does the
engine have to be removed in order to replace the clutch in an E Type?
In our
opinion, yes. We are aware of various people who have apparently devised
methods of replacing E Type clutches without removing the engine and transmission,
although we do not recommend such practices. The bell housings have to
be cut, and when all is said and done, the time saving is really not so
great. We feel that when the time comes to replace the clutch on an E Type,
the removal of the engine is a must. The expense can be made somewhat less
painful by tackling a number of other maintenance tasks while the engine
is removed (see below).
What other
tasks would it make sense to tackle while the engine and gearbox are out
of my E Type?
Main oil
seals can be replaced in both the engine and transmission. The flywheel
should be machined and balanced with the new clutch assembly. The gearbox
can be serviced or rebuilt, as necessary, as could be the starter motor,
which is notoriously tricky to R&R with the engine in the car.
The
engine bay generally could be detailed, and engine and transmission mounts
should be replaced as a matter of course. We would also recommend replacing
all the coolant hoses at this time.
The
oil loom that runs up the back of the block (feeding oil to the valve train)
can be serviced. The banjo bolts that secure the loom to the engine are
notorious leaking points - now is the time to address the problem, if it
exists on your car.
What would
be a reasonable labor estimate to R & R (remove and reinstall) the
engine and gearbox?
We usually
quote around 25 hours. It would be wise to allow an additional 5 hours
to deal with other maintenance tasks while the engine is out, or unexpected
issues which have a habit of arising during the process. 25 to 30 hours
is therefore a reasonable labor estimate, in our view.
What is
a good make of clutch for me to use in my E Type?
We
use A.P. clutch products in our service department.
What
is the difference between 9.5 inch and 10 inch clutches? Which is correct
for my car?
As a rule
of thumb, the 10 inch clutches were used in 3.8 E Types, and the 9.5 inch
clutches were standard equipment in 4.2 E Types. It is absolutely vital
that each unit is installed in conjunction with the correct throw out bearing.
The reason for this is that they each have a different style of throw out
bearing, with different offsets related to the depth of the pressure plate.
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