Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

I’ve been reading through the FSM and posts here and on CF. Is it possible for a below-average shade-tree mechanic like me to do this job?

(The last time I replaced a clutch was 30 years ago on a 1973 Vega [remember those?]. I was younger then and had more free time)

I know I work slowly too (I read posts about changing L98 injectors in 30 minutes – it took me a lot longer to do that job.) I’ve read that Bill B (ZFdoc) can drop the tranny in 15 minutes. I’m worried that it will take me 2 hours just to drop the exhaust. I am really hoping to take the Z to Bloomington Gold. I’m working overtime in the summer so I could only devote a couple hours a day to this project.

What I really need is a helpful group like FBI or WAZOO nearby :-)

A local Corvette specialty shop quoted me $1250 for the job. Based upon past experience, I need to add 50% to that quote. I don’t want to drop $2K right now.

So, is this a job I should tackle, or will I screw it up and have to take it to a shop anyway?

Gary

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

You can easily do this job at home, but I'd highly recommend that you have help.
The ZF is HEAVY!!
I did mine a couple of years ago with the help of my brother in law.
Removing the C-Beam is a bit tricky, I highly recommend Bill B.'s C-Beam plates for the re-install.

'Crabs

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

I helped Rhipser do it once...pretty straight forward, but the trans is heavy when laying on your back under a car on jackstands. People with a lift and transmission jack will have an easier time.

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

the zf is just damned heavy! i can remember helping pete load one into someones truck at carlisle a few years ago. damn heavy thing

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

What part of WI are you in? I did mine on my own, the ZF weighs about 150-160lbs not so much heavy as the shape and surface make is hard to maneuver.

Might check with Pete to see if he has time to do it...I would think he would be cheaper than a dealer

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

Dittos on the beam plates.

As for parts, the Veleo is no longer being made. However, the LT1/4 PP will work, if you even need one (recommended). Shorter PP bolt are needed is all.

Good time to flush the clutch, while you have the slave out.

If you can't find an OE clutch, call Pat at Ram Clutch. He has worked up a single or a dual disc clutch for the ZR-1; a conversion to a push type PP using a hyhydraulic TO bearing. Really nice stuff!

P.

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

Been there done that three times on my 90. Once by myself. And twice with the help of a friend. It's not a small job. But any shade tree mechanic can do it. There's some really good choices when it comes to clutches. Spec,Centerforce,Carolina,Mcleod,Ram ect.
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/n...utchjob021.jpg
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/n...utchjob028.jpg

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

that picture still cracks me up

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

I did it myself, the ZF is cumbersome, but nothing that a hydraulic floor jack can't help with. the key is getting the car high enough in the air to get the jack & trans under the car.

BTW, I have a NOS LT1 pressure plate, never used, if you need.

Re: Changing clutch – can I do this myself?
 

Yep! Get it as high as your jack stands will go. Once you get it out you'll still have to lay it on its side and drag it out from under the car.
http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/n...utchjob018.jpg