My 97 Max has 116k miles now and the clutch is really going finally. I have been looking into replacing it and its gonna be damned expensive. I am a college student but i do live at a house with a full garage of tools including air tools. The most advanced work i have done myself on my car has been to replace the knock sensor, fuel filter, brake pads and thats about it. So i was hoping for some guidance.

1) Should i do this myself?
2) Which clutch should i get? (I have a friend who works for a parts store that can get OEM replacements cheap, so unless someone says otherwise strongly, i will do that)
3) If I have someone do it, what should i expect to pay in CA.

I live in San Luis Obispo, CA if that changes anything. Thank you very much for your time!

Derek

 

If you have accedd to a full garage of tools including air I would do it myself. I would read thru all the details of changing the clutch and when you feel confident take on the job.

Check motorvate.ca there is a write up on changing the clutch. Go with the OEM 5th gen clutch Many testify to its better grabbing ability, and overall just better than 4th gen oem clutch.

I wouldnt know what a org member would charge, a shop just for labor would charge about $400, maybe an org member would do it for $100 or $150 I dont know.

 

Anyone in the area interested? =)

 

Post in the regionals.

 

If youre willing to drive it to SF, I might know someone that would do the job in front of you and show the ropes a bit for about $200.

 

1. No, because I don't feel you have enough mechanical experience. If you read the FSM and Haynes, and feel 1000% confident, then go for it.
2. OEM. You could try my guy in my sig. 25% off, and free s/h
3. $350-$450

 

I was in the same situation as you were. I consider myself fairly handy with a wrench but had never done anything as big as replacing a clutch. Get a FSM and a Hayes, 5th gen clutch and give yourself 2 full days. It's not that hard just takes a long time. Be patient and go slow.