Re: E30 325ES Stiff Clutch

["Ron Buchalski" <rbuchals@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Brad,

The E30 uses a clutch release bearing with two flat sides that keep it 
positioned in the clutch fork.  The release bearing is made of a relatively 
soft metal, softer than the clutch fork.

Over time, the flat sides of the release bearing begin to wear (get slightly 
rounded), and, eventually the release bearing will no longer stay in proper 
alignment.  As this happens, your clutch pedal will get a stiffer feel to 
it.

The only way to fix it (and start the process over again) is to pull the 
transmission and replace the release bearing.  While you're in there, you 
may as well replace the clutch and other related components, Also, check the 
rear main seal of the engine for oil leaks, and replace if it's leaking.

This has happened to my E30 318i twice in 254k miles.  Each time, I had the 
mechanic save the replaced parts.  Each time, the release bearing was 
damaged in the same way.

I don't know if this happens with the newer E36 cars.  You may want to check 
and see if BMW made a better (stronger) release bearing for the E36 that may 
also fit in the E30.

- -rb

>
>Date: Sun, 23 Dec 2001 21:22:33 -0600
>From: Purvis Brad Civ UAVB/DOI <brad.purvis@domain.elided>
>Subject: E30 325ES Stiff Clutch
>
>Anyone know what I should check to help loosen a stiff clutch. Clutch works 
>fine but is very heavy. Have two 325ES cars and one with new clutch is 
>light and smooth and other with old clutch is heavy but smooth. Any 
>suggestions for reducing the heavy feel?
>Thanks


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