Stiff Clutch

[Rhino2k]

Hi guys,

So I have a feeling I need a new clutch.

Got the van at 58K in June, now it’s at nearly 65K. Was a bit stiff then  but definitely stiffer now.

It’s stiff in operation at all times and I can hear a slight rattle when in neutral that goes away when engaging the clutch. Fluid could do with changing by the looks of it but it’s midway between max and low currently.
 I have also sprayed some silicone oil into the slave cylinder under the boot, as I saw this mentioned. I’ve not had a chance to really test it properly yet, might be a bit better but will know more tomorrow on an extended test.
Anything I should look for other than the above? I’m doubtful that the issue is with the hydraulic system as all seems smooth.

Also what kind of price should I be looking at for a fitted replacement? 

Thanks

[IHateMyDadsM59Berlingo]

I believe on the M59 The clutch bushing can cause the pedal to be a bit stiff but i'm sure someone will correct me if i'm wrong on that one so it could well be the same case, but as for the rattle that could well be the Flywheel.

[Rhino2k]

I believe on the M59 The clutch bushing can cause the pedal to be a bit stiff but i'm sure someone will correct me if i'm wrong on that one so it could well be the same case, but as for the rattle that could well be the Flywheel.

Thanks for the reply,

It’s a single mass flywheel so that should be ok.

[Sol]

The rattle that disappears when you press the clutch is most likely a worn release bearing. It gets compressed when you press the pedal down which stops the rattle. Or a loose finger rivet on the pressure cover. Mine is way too heavy as well and sort of groans near the bottom of the pedal travel. I believe the clutch slave cylinder to lever connection gets rusty and seizes up, I've not tried filling the boot over it with oil or silicone yet but that was my next move.

If it's still like that in November I'll get the garage to sort it when it's in for the MOT as it's now due a 62500 mile service which involves replacement of the brake and clutch fluid and cabin filters among the usual stuff. At that point they can check the slave cylinder and clutch operation.

[Sol]

I think a clutch kit will be around £150 with 2 to 3 hours labour to fit, so if they charge £45 an hour, total would be about £300 fitted. That's what my local garage charges me for labour.

Luckily for me the owner runs a pug partner B9 himself and loves it so he's pretty switched on with them.

[Rhino2k]

I think a clutch kit will be around £150 with 2 to 3 hours labour to fit, so if they charge £45 an hour, total would be about £300 fitted. That's what my local garage charges me for labour.

Luckily for me the owner runs a pug partner B9 himself and loves it so he's pretty switched on with them.

Thanks Zion,

I have sprayed in the boot at the weekend and it does feel a bit better.

An independent guy I used for the service (he was not cheap surprisingly) wants
£430 which I feel is too much.

I have seen decent clutches on sale for under £100. So over £300 labour seems a lot imo.

[Sol]

Yeah that's a bit strong in anyone's book. There are special tools needed to reset the automatic clutch adjustment springs on the pressure cover and if not used, can cause juddering - but I expect a competent garage would know this from AutoData etc.

I've attached the docs on the clutch, it may help you to find out why it is stiff or to help a mechanic if you decide to get it swapped.

[Rhino2k]

Thanks Zion,

Very useful info