Advice on noisy clutch

Goji

I'm away on holiday this week. Typically, my car has now decided that this is the perfect time to make some noise. I need some advice.

Car is a 2003 Ford Focus TDCI.

When pressing down on the clutch pedal I'm getting feedback through the pedal and a clunky/grinding noise at the same time. Most of the time this stops when the pedal is released or when in gear but occasionally the noise/clunking feeling persists even without pressure on the pedal. A quick depress of the pedal normally stops it.

Gear changes are normal other than the noise and the noise stops when I lift in gear.

Any suggestions? Father in law thinks it could be thrust bearing but I need to know if it's going to be safe for the next week or so.

nickcc

If it's a dual mass flywheel look out for major expenditure.

EdGasket

or else its the release bearing (thrust bearing if you like). If it makes the noise when stationary then more likely release bearing; if it only makes the noise when on the move then probably the DMF as suggested.

forgotmyname

When its clutch related its worth changing everything anyway.

Not much point paying to take the box off and fit just a bearing unless your selling it right after the jobs done. Replace everything unless you want to risk another bill to remove the box again.

Goji

The problem is when idle or moving. The clunking and noise happens when the pedal is pressed and persists throughout the full travel unless a gear is engaged.

I've looked around online and prices seem to be up to £1000 for a DMF replacement and clutch etc. I doubt the car is worth that!

nickcc

I believe you can replace the DMF with a conventional clutch and flywheel which may save you money. I've never done this as DMF's hadn't been introduced when I was still on the tools but I'm sure others on here will know if it's possible and what the cost may be.

Muscle750

Yes you can replace the clutch and use a normal flywheel. Ive seen one that failed in high speed fashion and went out straight throu the gearbox casing leaving a large inspection hole that was on a Peugeot

Strider590

Does sound to me like it's DMF failure.

Muscle750 wrote: »

Yes you can replace the clutch and use a normal flywheel. Ive seen one that failed in high speed fashion and went out straight throu the gearbox casing leaving a large inspection hole that was on a Peugeot

I'm sure you mean't flywheel and not clutch, as the two are entirely different parts.

motorguy

Goji wrote: »

I'm away on holiday this week. Typically, my car has now decided that this is the perfect time to make some noise. I need some advice.

Car is a 2003 Ford Focus TDCI.

When pressing down on the clutch pedal I'm getting feedback through the pedal and a clunky/grinding noise at the same time. Most of the time this stops when the pedal is released or when in gear but occasionally the noise/clunking feeling persists even without pressure on the pedal. A quick depress of the pedal normally stops it.

Gear changes are normal other than the noise and the noise stops when I lift in gear.

Any suggestions? Father in law thinks it could be thrust bearing but I need to know if it's going to be safe for the next week or so.

Sounds like DMF. Ive seen them get that bad that you can feel the vibration on the inside of the car while sitting in it. Also heard them that bad - DING DING DING - that it was very noticable when standing 20 feet from the car.

Chances are it "should" be fine. I'd invest in a cheap breakdown recovery policy if you're worried though. Usually available for about £30. Check the main board for info.

It shouldnt be that expensive to replace - heres a full DMF and clutch kit by LUK for your car for £259.95 delivered.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Ford-Focus-1-8-Tdci-Luk-Dual-Mass-Flywheel-Complete-Clutch-Kit-Mk1-100-115-Bhp-/130391201333?fits=Model%3AFocus%7CCars+Year%3A2003%7CCars+Type%3A1.8+TDCi&hash=item1e5bebd635:g:YsIAAOxyHntSVRid

Its probably a days labour to fit. You could have it done for £500-600.

One thing i would say is, if you're otherwise happy with the car and its running well, i'd get the work done and drive on at it.