My new Evo 4 GSR - is the clutch supposed to be so hard!?

[Samj]

Hey all - I've literally just joined the Evo ranks, and your lovely forum of course!

I part exchanged my BMW 328 last night for a white 1996 Evo GSR; it has around 90,000 on the clock with a few choice mods - I got it for around £4000 when taking into account my car.

The car however I'm told has an Exedy racing clutch on, which I have to say is not enjoyable to use at all! I'm not sure whether it's supposed to be like it or not, so I was hoping you guys could shed some light for me?

Basically when pulling off from low revs it makes quite alot of noise, and sometimes sounds like its grinding??! It judders a bit! At high revs it's a bit better, still not easy to use around town at all though!

I'm actually considering having the clutch and flywheel changed this weekend; but wanted to see if you could offer any feedback or advice first!

Thanks in advance for your replies; I look forward to any info you can offer!

 

[Nick]

Racing clutches are a nightmare if your not used to them. Very binary.
But you can get used to them.
Though grinding does sound possibly dodgy.
Is there anyone local who you would trust to give an oppinion on the noise (evo specialist even better)?
Does it slip at all? If not I might give it a bit to see if you get used to it.

Welcome BTW!

 

[Samj]

I think there's a jap performance place local to me, think I'll pop in there this weekend! It's not slipping at all, more juddering but only when pulling off in 1st.

Once going the gear changes are fine, it's just when pulling off or reversing - you can't ride the clutch to move in slow traffic.

The biting point is also really high up!

 

[Agent david]

Hi mate, welcome.

I have an E4 RS and the bite point on my clutch is quite high as well. It doesnt really bother me and i have no problems with it.

Got any pics of the car? Would be good to see.

 

[Samj]

I'll get some pics up this weekend when I've given her a good wash and wax!

 

[Tom C]

I fitted a Exedy race Clutch on my E4 afew months back and had exactly the same symptoms as you, judder in 1st and reverse but it has got better with more miles on-it it needs to bed-in. Also I need to deppress the clutch to Start now aswell, I thought it was my Battery and alternator had gone lol

Welcome BTW

 

[Samj]

I fitted a Exedy race Clutch on my E4 afew months back and had exactly the same symptoms as you, judder in 1st and reverse but it has got better with more miles on-it it needs to bed-in. Also I need to deppress the clutch to Start now aswell, I thought it was my Battery and alternator had gone lol

Welcome BTW

I've taken the decision to fit a standard Exedy clutch anyway, along with a new flywheel - it's not running massive power so no need for a race clutch!

The race clutch is virtually brand new, I'm going to put it up for sale if anyone is interested - I'll stick it in the F/S section once it's off my car this week

 

[Agent david]

..... Also I need to deppress the clutch to Start now aswell.........

I have an Evo 4 and NEVER start the car with the clutch depressed as it can hasten the onslaught of crankwalk.