Q – I’m getting ready to do a clutch job on my ’87 944S. Like most, I’ve been to the web and shopped there. In the interest of keeping local guys in business, I thought it would be good to get a quote from my local shops as well. I’d like advice on what would be considered a “reasonable price” on this job. Also, if I get this out and the only worn part is the disc, can you guys resurface the flywheel and pressure plate and simply replace the disc? I’ve done this on American clutches, but never a Porsche. Some are telling me to just get a kit and make sure all is new. What are your thoughts? – Jeff
A – Thanks for your interest in keeping local shops in business. I assure you that they appreciate it! Clutch services on 944s are complex and expensive compared to any other car we service. Based on the labor alone to do the job, I have never done a “budget job” on a 944. An old mechanic once told me, “If you don’t take the time to do a job right the first time, somehow you will always find the time to do it over again!” It is just not worth the risk. The “reasonable price” is whatever price it takes to only have to do it ONCE in a 100,000 mile time-frame!
Another factor is the condition of the linkage components that keep it all operating smoothly. If you only focus on the clutch and overlook those related parts, you might miss the original issue. On my own car, I would inspect the components then make a judgment call about replacement or simply servicing. Any shop you choose can do that for you as well and it is a reasonable request. It will probably cost something for the inspection, but it would be cheap insurance rather than just firing the parts cannon at it!
Typically I recommend the kit since it is not exorbitantly expensive (compared to Porsche genuine parts) and satisfaction is guaranteed. At my shop, we rarely replace the flywheel but we always have it machined or surface conditioned in a media blaster or with an abrasive disc…just like a Chevy.
I gotta ask though…how does the clutch feel on your car and are you sure you need one? I just drove a 944 that had a bad clutch master cylinder causing the clutch to act up. If it still drives, take your car to a shop that has driven hundreds of these cars and let them take it for a drive. One test drive by a qualified technician’s is worth a thousand web opinions. There will be no shortage of volunteers. I know that when I test drive a Porsche, sometimes I pinch myself and think “You call this a job?!”. – MC