96 metro - Am I the only clutch abuser?

[3cyl]

I searched the threads for clutch problems. I have just killed my second clutch at 150,000 mi. For the second time, it locked up, mechanic tells me the plate "blows apart". Anyone heard of this? What am i doing? Also, while I have your attention: what elect. problem would effect the fuel gauge and the seat belt alarm and door switches simultaneously? None of which work, but come back rarely and intermittently... thanks

[geozukigti]

Well, as for the clutch "blowing apart", i've never ever heard of this. I run my factory clutch @ 3 times the HP of a regular metro, and beat the snot out of it on a daily basis. I get about 60k to a clutch due to abuse. BUT, they're usually just shaved thin. Sounds like you're buying crappy clutches. or something is out of balance. Perhaps a cracked or warped flywheel is the culprate.

[geozukigti]

Oh, as to the other wiring issues. All of those devices connect to the main wiring harness behind the kick panel by your left foot when sitting in the drivers seat. Check for corrosion or a loose connection there. The grounds for that harness connect there too, by the fusebox. Make sure those are ok.

[lawbob81]

Originally Posted by 3cyl

I searched the threads for clutch problems. I have just killed my second clutch at 150,000 mi. For the second time, it locked up, mechanic tells me the plate "blows apart". Anyone heard of this? What am i doing? Also, while I have your attention: what elect. problem would effect the fuel gauge and the seat belt alarm and door switches simultaneously? None of which work, but come back rarely and intermittently... thanks

I am on my second clutch as well, all within 25K miles. Yes, the plate does fly apart. I suggest that you install a high grade clutch assembly. My mechanic is in Mexico, so I didn't have this option. If you find a good source for high grade clutch parts, let me know? I paid $180 for parts and labor.

[barteldt]

you get what you pay for???

[SeanMurphy]

The reason your clutch is 'blowing apart' is probably because you're shifting down when the wheels are turning too fast. Think about it, if your wheels are turning at 60mph, then you shift down to second or, God help you, first, the clutch, even though disengaged, still spins at the wheel speed x transmission gear ratio. That means that if the tranny is going fast enough to keep up with the engine at 3000rpm in fifth, if you put it into 2nd, it'll be like spinning it at 16000rpm or something. (Just an example, math not accurate). This will cause centrifugal force to tear the clutch lining away from the disc, leaving you with a shattered disc and a pile of lining bits in the bottom of the bell housing. I got an 88 firefly with a blown clutch for free when i first got my license, replaced the clutch, and blew it out 6 months later because of this. Basically, if you're downshifting on and offramp, make sure you engage the clutch between gears to make sure that the engine can keep up with the tires, otherwise, you're probably spinning the transmission and thusly, the clutch, too fast.

[geozukigti]

Perhaps trying a clutch from a 94' Suzuki Swift GT. It's a bit meatier, and it will fit on the same flywheel. Just have your flywheel resurfaced to be perfectly flat before installation. The GT clutches are designed to be a lot more tough, and will probably last a lot longer. Only thing is, your clutch will engauge a little more harsh, and have a more stiff feel because of the higher spring pressure.