2007 clutch replacement

[gtower3061]

I have a 07 sport with 40k. Clutch is in great shape, but anybody that has driven the 07 knows they did a poor job with the engineering (very abrupt, hard to modulate) I have become very good at shifting smoothly but it still takes more effort and concentration than all of the other manuals I have driven. When i do eventually replace it what do i replace it with? if i go to the factory will they replace it with a newer version? apparently the 09 is signifgantly better. Are after market clutchs worth it? :

[SteveTheTech]

I understand what you mean, some of the clutch plate springs in some of the models are pretty stiff. However I do not think you will be able to update your current Hydraulic Activating (Slave) Cylinder with the new style that is mounted to the transmission input shaft. It uses a different setup from the top down. The best thing I can recommend if you are looking to retain you factory noise level is when replacing go with the OE one (it's pricey but quite) if the flywheel is in good shape (no heat cracks or discoloration) you can replace the disc and cover and the results should be different. There is (as far as I know) no defining characteristics are labeled on them but I would imagine there is a slight varience between years, typically the 04 w/ Brembos always tend to have heavier (stock) clutches, but I have seen other years also have very heavy pedals and other models in the same VIN series have very light ones.

The aftermarket flywheels are typically a single mass as opposed to the OE dual mass energy absorbing model used originally. Members and Moderators (Joe603) here can attest to the noise that is made from a single mass or "lightweight" flywheel and the engaging pressure is usually increased in aftermarket models.

[NJ 666]

I've done a bunch of ACT cluches with their Streetlight or a Fidanza Aluminium flywheel. If you don't mind the NVH they are a decent upgrade. Car will rev a little quicker. Just remember they seem to have a little idle stumble when they come down off of high revs because of the lighter flywheel.

One word of caution is be very careful who you have install it(stock or aftermarket) because I've seen a few where guys have damaged the pilot bushing installing the trans and this causes drag on the input shaft and is tough on the syncros. One trans only last 10k after this. And be very careful how the shifter is reinstalled or it won't shift all the way into 5th and blow that syncro out too. One trans only lasted 450 miles after this.

[SteveTheTech]

Great info there.

The only caution I would add to that is be sure to line up the mating marks on ANY flywheel because if they are off you will be pulling the trans again to index it.

[gtower3061]

Thanks for the info, cabin noise level is very important to me so this will help in making my decision.

[tollboothwilley]

INstalled a JWT flywheel and clutch combo. There was no noticeable difference in cabin volume. We could only hear the difference when windows were down and in neutral. Noise was amplified in a garage, but not even close to the volume I had been expecting. I'd do that upgrade again in a heartbeat.

Recommend upgrading the pilot bearing and clutch pivot ball at the same time. Also the clutch line to SS braided.