(Jr Member)

02/17/09 12:22 AM

e36 m3 clutch help

My stock clutch lasted 1 day after my sc install. I can still drive it but it is slipping at higher RPM's and reverse is a bitch.
e
I have seen UUCs options, ACT, Clutch Master, OEM type. any ideas? Porbably at 300whp now but that will be growing

(Post Master Sr)

02/17/09 12:23 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

I cant help with your clutch,but I can bump you up by asking what blower you got and stuff...

(Jr Member)

02/17/09 01:15 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: progressi

I cant help with your clutch,but I can bump you up by asking what blower you got and stuff...

VFE Stage I @ 6psi. Sorry for the dirty engine, I bought the car last summer, put it in storage until I had time to work on it over the winter.

So far I have installed plugs, coil boots, ac belt, radiator, overflow tank, engine coolant temp sensor, fuel filter, water pump, thermostat and housing, radiator hoses, new bmw coolant and oil w/filter. Kit came with vortech v3, injectors, giac tune, belt, intake, and other various shit.

Ordering the suspension and precat 02s tonight - im sure they have never been replaced. Once that is done its going in to get the moldings painted and most of the front of the car will be repaited due to a few rock chips.

edit: no, I am not a midget, it is my 3 year old helping with the oil change :P

(Post Master Supreme)

02/17/09 06:48 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

After looking at that first pic, it would be so fucking awesome to COMPLETELY fit on a crawler $\:\)$

(Good job on including the kid, I used to love to crawl under the truck with the old man when I was younger $\:\)$ )

(Post Master Supreme)

02/17/09 09:52 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

I'll post again when I learn what parts you need to change in addition - which flywheel, etc - but it's all about the M5 clutch.

cheers,
scott

(Post Master Supreme)

02/17/09 12:07 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: buldogge

Single mass flywheel (generally JB Racing or UUC...or lightened steel
E28) and the E34 M5 clutch kit (or 635csi which is cheaper if the M3
is stockish).

They're always for sale over at Bimmerforums.

cheers,
scott

(Post Master Sr)

02/17/09 12:10 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

E34 M5 is a popular choice, however I didn't really like the feel of the two that I have driven. I'm pretty sure I'll be going a different route, but I'm still unsure about which.

(Post Master Sr)

02/17/09 02:07 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Whatever happened to that screw blower that I think Turner was testing for someone,there was alot of talk about it and it made it into a very fast (and VERY modded) E36?

LOL I see your mechanic-that's why your clutch is jacked. $;\)$

Wait for Chuck's reply-he seems well researched on these cars. If he doesnt have the answer-he'll know where to look I bet.

And wasnt there another E36 M3 guy on this very forum?

Did you see what Vorshlag recommends-those dudes have some wicked fast M3s.

(Jr Member)

02/17/09 02:26 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

I am not having much luck wiht m3forums, people seem to recommend oem replacement when needed and their FI section is all e46 guys.

The M5 clutch looked like a good option but I have read pretty mixed reviews. I have also read it really softens the clutch feel unless you replace the hydro unit with one from a 325i.

I figured I would have had a bit more time with the stock clutch, honestly 6psi from this VF kit gave it a bit more kick in the pants than I thought it would. It would be nice if they ever do a stage II.

(Post Master Supreme)

02/17/09 09:39 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Two words: buldogge pullies.

I like the M5 clutch more than the various race clutches I've been exposed to.

cheers,
scott

(Jr Member)

02/17/09 10:42 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: scootergeek

Two words: buldogge pullies.

Do you have a link, I cant find anything on them?

Originally Posted By: scootergeek

I like the M5 clutch more than the various race clutches I've been exposed to.

That is the direction I am leaning towards so far. Never installed a clutch, not really looking forward to it either. I am about sick of working on the car right now, VF's instructions were so fucking bad I spent most of my time redoing shit. I ended up throwing them away and figuring it out on my own.

I wonder if I should cancel my dyno Friday or if I can get a few pulls out of the old one....

thanks!

(Post Master Supreme)

02/17/09 11:06 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

They don't have a website (yet), but you can ask around bimmerforums for testimonials - which is also the easiest way to reach Mark - send him a pm over there, his screen name is buldogge. They make custom blower pullies, crank pullies, etc.

The worst part about pulling a BMW transmission is getting to the starter bolts(the rest aren't so bad). You'll need about 3 feet of extensions and E10, E12 and E14 extruded torx sockets. A tranny jack makes your life much less miserable also. And beware the clutch slave self destructing - which seems fairly common from my experience. I just pulled the race car's tranny (E36 325is) last week so it's still fresh in my mind, feel free to pm if you need help.

cheers,
scott

(Jr Member)

02/18/09 12:30 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: scootergeek

They don't have a website (yet), but you can ask around bimmerforums for testimonials - which is also the easiest way to reach Mark - send him a pm over there, his screen name is buldogge. They make custom blower pullies, crank pullies, etc.

The worst part about pulling a BMW transmission is getting to the starter bolts(the rest aren't so bad). You'll need about 3 feet of extensions and E10, E12 and E14 extruded torx sockets. A tranny jack makes your life much less miserable also. And beware the clutch slave self destructing - which seems fairly common from my experience. I just pulled the race car's tranny (E36 325is) last week so it's still fresh in my mind, feel free to pm if you need help.

cheers,
scott

Thank you! I may take you up on your offer. Do you know the best place to buy a complete M5 clutch kit with flywheel? I found it the other day, I thought UUC sold one but who knows.

(Jr Member)

02/18/09 12:43 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

What about the Sachs Sport E36 M3 Clutch Disc from Bimmerworld? "This Sachs Sport disc, combined with a higher clamping pressure plate, will give your clutch more holding power. Fits 1995-1999 M3 and all MZ3."

MurderHornetVR6

(Post Master Supreme)

02/18/09 04:47 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: scootergeek

I like the M5 clutch more than the various race clutches I've been exposed to.

cheers,
scott

Always go with an OEM part if you can.

CommonGutterTrash

(Post Master Sr)

02/18/09 12:36 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Sachs is likely OE, or valero. I'm sure a sachs racing clutch will be Awesome
People Seem to like the Spec clutches, but mine was chattery in the 9-3.
(as I think of it, I had a sachs "R" pressure plate in the 9-3, and a spec friction disk)

It looks like HPF has a crap load for the e36.
http://www.horsepowerfreaks.com/performanceparts/BMW/M3/Clutch/Clutch_Kits

If I had a choice, I'd go a full-face(street/organic) ACT with their HD pressure plate, or a sprung-hub 6-puck, If I was expecting more than 400 lb/ft

if you do a 6-puck make ABSOLUTELY sure it's sprung.

(Jr Member)

02/18/09 12:45 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: g96nt

Sachs is likely OE, or valero. I'm sure a sachs racing clutch will be Awesome
People Seem to like the Spec clutches, but mine was chattery in the 9-3.
(as I think of it, I had a sachs "R" pressure plate in the 9-3, and a spec friction disk)

It looks like HPF has a crap load for the e36.
http://www.horsepowerfreaks.com/performanceparts/BMW/M3/Clutch/Clutch_Kits

If I had a choice, I'd go a full-face(street/organic) ACT with their HD pressure plate, or a sprung-hub 6-puck, If I was expecting more than 400 lb/ft

if you do a 6-puck make ABSOLUTELY sure it's sprung.

I was checking out HPF the other day, they have a Stage II turbo kit for $11k that looked pretty sick.

My thing is I want something streetable but if i go turbo or run more boost somehow with my sc I dont want to redo the clutch.

ACT looks good and they are decently priced, I just cant find any reviews from poeple running them on an e36. I also want to try to avoid any extra noises, my Vortech V3 at idle chatters a little, I guess the V3s are much quieter than the V1 and V2s but it is still noticable. I am sure my VANOS will be rattling soon too with my luck.

CommonGutterTrash

(Post Master Sr)

02/18/09 01:08 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

ACT was the preferred clutch for DSMs for the last 15 years.
they still would be, if it wasn't for the quartermaster, and other triple clutches.

a lot of the DSM guys will use a 2600psi clutch, and a factory friction disk to make the car the most streetable, but I never had a problem running my sprung 6-puck. solid 6-pucks SUCK, and will make you hate the car.

There's also nothing wrong (in most cases) with mix/matching parts.
If you want a softer pedal, you can get a lower-pressure pressure plate, and mix it with a 6, or 4-puck friction disk, and it will "stretch" the rating of the pressure plate.

having never driven an M3, let alone one with an aftermarket clutch, I can only give the ACT+6-puck or ACT+stock disc recommendation.

(Jr Member)

02/18/09 05:01 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

VANOS (BMW VTEC FTMFW!) rattle seems to come on after 100k and from what I have heard I am guessing it sounds like a timing chain tensioner going bad. I think I read that it may be related to oil starvation issues to the unit from blocked passages due to not changing your oil enough but I could be wrong on that. The VANOS sits right in front of your cams and requires you to pull the valve cover to replace.

I think it just rattles at idle and once it starts just gets worse and worse. Im not sure about how it affects your hp/tq but I am guessing it may hurt your bottom end power delivery a bit if it gets bad enough.

Mine does not do it that I know of but it seems to be a wear item like BMW's auto trannys and its only a matter of time. Dr. Vanos sells rebuild kits pretty cheap and it does not seem like a huge PITA to fix but I think you need some special tools to hold the cams in place, valve cover gaskets, etc.

(Jr Member)

02/18/09 09:49 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayIS...hlink:middle:us

this might be a good deal at $699....

edit: maybe no on the UUC http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=250145

(Post Master Sr)

02/18/09 11:23 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

I have an E34 M5 clutch in my '98 M3, I like it just fine. My drivetrain is stock except for exhaust and lightened flywheel, so it's not exactly taking a beating, but it's been working perfectly and I have no complaints.

Pat, does your valvetrain rattle sound something like "marbles in a can"? I remember reading a tech letter in Roundel about that, the fix for which was an expensive VANOS adjustment at the dealer. My valvetrain is loud as hell, but doesn't have any distinct weird noises.

(Post Master Supreme)

02/19/09 06:29 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: PatB18C

STi is gone... and life is so much better for it.

Now, help me out with this Vanos rattle question!

Why don't you ever post what car you currently drive?

(Post Master Supreme)

02/19/09 10:01 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

LoL! Wasn't trying to give you a hard time. I wouldn't worry about the d-bags in OT infiltrating SvA, but I definitely know where you're coming from...just figured it might help people dignose your prob better if they new model, year, etc. $\:\)$

(Post Master)

02/19/09 11:04 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

What wheels are those on your car? Just curious cause they kinda look like the E90 M3 wheels.

CommonGutterTrash

(Post Master Sr)

02/19/09 12:22 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: EclipseGT

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=190286984782&fromMakeTrack=true&ssPageName=VIP:Watchlink:middle:us

this might be a good deal at $699....

edit: maybe no on the UUC http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=250145

flywheels don't really "fail"
Installs fail.
it looks like the bolts were re-used, or not torqued well, and backed out.
(This is why you'd have the bolt-holes gouged out)

If you have the friction pads seperate, or have the flywheel crack, I could see blaming the manufacturer.

(Post Master Supreme)

02/19/09 12:36 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Pat and others,

How are 330's for reliability/maintenance? A certified 2006+ 330 seems like a decent buy around here. 260hp, RWD or AWD, etc. Most of the certified models come with something like a 6 year warranty, but I would hate to be spending $500 every couple months on basic maintenance.

(Post Master)

02/19/09 12:58 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

get that god foresaken S52 intake manifold off of it $\:o$

m5 clutch would work good in that application. Consider from uuc tranny monuts and enforcers while you are at it (common misshift area)

also i can write a custom tune (odb2) for that setup, im not sure what you are using now.

(Post Master Supreme)

02/19/09 01:24 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: Impulsive

Pat and others,

How are 330's for reliability/maintenance? A certified 2006+ 330 seems like a decent buy around here. 260hp, RWD or AWD, etc. Most of the certified models come with something like a 6 year warranty, but I would hate to be spending $500 every couple months on basic maintenance.

My dad has a 2006 330i and it's a great versatile car with some stereotypical BMW issues (door/fuel door lock actuators keep breaking). It's the first model year of the E92 generation, so take that into consideration.

The 3.0 in the 2006 year (they switch to a detuned 230hp version for the 2007+ 328i) is awesome. Mid 30s mpg on the highway and a flat powerband with a nice top-end rush. Not overly impressive on the low end, though.

The suspension is a little too soft (not equipped with the Sport package) and the shifter is kind of rubbery.

(Post Master)

02/19/09 02:02 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Once you get into BMW's the little things don't bother you as much. They are solidly built cars - you won't get your wrx trans, fxt motor, or fxt clutch issues with them.

You will however lose a door lock actuator, a temperature sensor, and a driveshaft bushing every once in a while. Get one well sorted and documented. I've owned 4 of them now.

(Post Master Supreme)

02/19/09 03:29 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

I don't mind having the odd issue, as long as it's fixed the first time and it doesn't require frequent dealer visits beyond just getting it looked at during service.

Constantly dropping cars off, arranging rides, nagging issues just plain sucks. I do have a BMW dealer about 3-4 blocks from work.

(Jr Member)

02/19/09 04:12 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: bren si

get that god foresaken S52 intake manifold off of it $\:o$

m5 clutch would work good in that application. Consider from uuc tranny monuts and enforcers while you are at it (common misshift area)

also i can write a custom tune (odb2) for that setup, im not sure what you are using now.

I was going to put an M50 on it but VF told me not to, they said little to no gains running the M50 manifold with thier kit. Also, if they ever do a stage II it will replace the manifold.

I was planning on doing UUC tranny mounts/enforcers when I did my suspension but I guess they will be going in with the clutch. I was also looking at some of their short shifters and DSSR.

I am looking for a dyno tune and someone that can tune it if I ever up the boost. VF uses a GIAC tune, the shop I was going to have dyno it used to be a GIAC dealer and have recently moved to http://www.evoms.com

(Jr Member)

02/19/09 04:20 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: Impulsive

Pat and others,

How are 330's for reliability/maintenance? A certified 2006+ 330 seems like a decent buy around here. 260hp, RWD or AWD, etc. Most of the certified models come with something like a 6 year warranty, but I would hate to be spending $500 every couple months on basic maintenance.

maintenence is not bad if you do it yourself and dont buy an automatic, the GM units in the 6cyls seem to have a huge failure rate. The ZF units in the V8s seem pretty solid but very pricy to replace.

Suspension and cooling system is what is going to cost you on any BMW with over 80k miles, everything needs to be replaced. I have owned 3 BMWs and 2 MINIs and I am hooked. No a huge fan of the e9x series yet, test drove a few and was not impressed.

e46 330i ZHP is on my list to own since they never did a 4 door e46 M3.

(Jr Member)

02/19/09 05:51 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: PatB18C

Originally Posted By: theLoon

Pat, does your valvetrain rattle sound something like "marbles in a can"? I remember reading a tech letter in Roundel about that, the fix for which was an expensive VANOS adjustment at the dealer. My valvetrain is loud as hell, but doesn't have any distinct weird noises.

It does, but not at idle. It makes that sound at part throttle between about 1500 and 3000 rpms.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=770210

ZHP issue.

(Post Master)

02/20/09 01:40 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: EclipseGT

Originally Posted By: bren si

get that god foresaken S52 intake manifold off of it $\:o$

m5 clutch would work good in that application. Consider from uuc tranny monuts and enforcers while you are at it (common misshift area)

also i can write a custom tune (odb2) for that setup, im not sure what you are using now.

I was going to put an M50 on it but VF told me not to, they said little to no gains running the M50 manifold with thier kit. Also, if they ever do a stage II it will replace the manifold.

I was planning on doing UUC tranny mounts/enforcers when I did my suspension but I guess they will be going in with the clutch. I was also looking at some of their short shifters and DSSR.

I am looking for a dyno tune and someone that can tune it if I ever up the boost. VF uses a GIAC tune, the shop I was going to have dyno it used to be a GIAC dealer and have recently moved to http://www.evoms.com

i totally think that's BS on the M50, guarantee youll pick up 30whp putting that thing on and not lose any low end with your setup. I can't see VF saying that its well documented. I basically deal with the company that writes all the software for the company you listed. I could have a custom maps made. You would just need an odb2 e36 cable to flash and a laptop. email me if your interested brentuning@gmail.com

(Post Master)

02/20/09 01:40 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: PatB18C

You'll drop window regulators and wheel bearings, too... but, fuck it... they make up for it in the driving dynamics department.

Put it this way: If it's dead reliable and never requires any attention, it's an appliance.

This does not apply to E36's, they can be like Jr High girlfriends.

(Jr Member)

02/21/09 12:29 AM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

Originally Posted By: bren si

i totally think that's BS on the M50, guarantee youll pick up 30whp putting that thing on and not lose any low end with your setup. I can't see VF saying that its well documented. I basically deal with the company that writes all the software for the company you listed. I could have a custom maps made. You would just need an odb2 e36 cable to flash and a laptop. email me if your interested brentuning@gmail.com

Im sure it was a tuning issue with VF, thier off-the-self GIAC tune would probably not be able to take advantage of the M50. I would consider the swap but I really want a water-to-air intercooled manifold and a custom tune.

what would you need from me for the tune? I have Carsoft 6.5 with the OBDII and BMW diagonstic port cable for my laptop.

(Post Master)

02/22/09 02:05 PM

Re: e36 m3 clutch help

I would need you to pull the stock .bin off the car for me, I have the software i could email you, the .bin can then be modified.

You will need a odb2 cable that has the pins for bmw's.