I have a 2006 350Z with 104xxx miles, and the throwout bearing is starting to make quite a bit of noise. So, I have decided to replace the clutch while I already have the transmission out, but I have a couple of questions.

I have done a massive amount of research on clutches and flywheels for the 350Z, and I know that single mass flywheels cause an increase in noise, usually at idle and at low RPMS. However, I believe that my car is still on it's original clutch and flywheel, and it makes similar noises to what I've heard described, and what I've heard on youtube videos.

Also, since I purchased the car with 69xxx miles on it, the clutch has felt unlike any I have ever operated. I've owned several cars with manual transmissions, and driven more than that, but this clutch is the worst I have ever used. The friction zone is unpredictable, the engagement is not at all smooth, and sometimes it honestly makes me not enjoy driving the car. That being said...

First question:
Can I keep my stock dual mass flywheel, and replace the clutch with an OEM or aftermarket clutch?
I know that dual mass flywheels cannot be readily resurfaced, and I do not want to pay $900 for a new dual mass flywheel from Courtesy Parts. However, it seems like over 100,000 miles would be too much to reuse the original flywheel.

Second question:
If it is determined that I cannot reuse my stock dual mass flywheel, what can I do to minimize the noise/"chatter" that results from using a single mass flywheel?
I am looking at either the Southbend "quiet disk" clutch with their billet flywheel, the JWT clutch & flywheel, or the "Nismo sports clutch kit" (single plate, not the twin). I have heard that a heavier flywheel can reduce noise when dealing with the single masses, which is why I am considering the Southbend or the Nismo for the flywheel. I will be ordering a stainless steel clutch line, and Nismo roller bearing pilot bushing with whichever I end up choosing.

Third question:
Does anyone have any suggestions on why my stock clutch/flywheel would be sounding and behaving in the manner it is? Other than just the throwout bearing needing to be replaced. And do you think that this issue could be corrected by replacing the clutch/flywheel? I'd really like to enjoy shifting this car as much I as used to enjoy shifting my S13 and S14.


Pertinent information:
The 350Z is my daily driver, and I put a lot of miles on it each year.
I prefer to minimize noises such as the infamous "chatter" as much as possible.
The transmission oil I use is the OEM oil purchased from Courtesy (75W-85, if I recall correctly).

Thank you very much for your time!

 

1) This depends on what kind of condition your original dual mass flywheel is in. Specifically, what kind of condition the friction surface is in and whether it is too marred, pitted or grooved for smooth operation.

2) After using the original Tilton ultra-lightweight clutch and flywheel for a few years, all I can say is, the amount of clutch/flywheel chatter is strictly dependant on how smooth the operator is. Currently, my '03 track model (92K miles) uses the original dual mass flywheel with a new OEM clutch disc and it shifts just as smoothly as when it was new.

3) My guess is the clutch and flywheel on your Z was pretty badly damaged by the previous owner(s). It's a performance sportscar and that kind of abuse can happen. If I were you--and if your clutch/flywheel is beyond repair--I'd consider purchasing a used OEM dual mass flywheel in good shape and match it up with an new OEM clutch disc and throw out bearing. Then you might find out just how sweet shifting and driving this Z is!

 

If I had to guess, I would say that the original flywheel is not in good enough condition to be reused. I had not considered trying to find a used dual mass flywheel, that's a good idea. However, I am in a bit of a time crunch to get this work done, so I don't know if I'll have time to find a good one.

Do you have any opinion on the "quiet disk" option on the Southbend clutches? I've been trying to search on forums for info, but there isn't much that I've found yet.

 

I have no experience with the southbend clutches, so I can't say much there. Why the time crunch? That usually costs money since you get pushed for time. You should also consider pricing the Nissan Value added clutch kit for the Z33- they're usually good values.

 

The time crunch is because I only have the winter break to complete the work on the car, because once the semester starts, I will have zero time to do it.

I am unfamiliar with the "Nissan Value added clutch kit," could you tell me what that is?

 

Nissan packages several commonly used components together and offers a discount on them. Check with your local dealer or Nissan's e-store on pricing. Are you going to try doing this job yourself? Do you have a garage, skills and tools to handle it? If not, at least get a quote from the dealer and use it as the high end of what it may cost.

 

Ooo

 

be careful, you might get dinged for trying to part ways with something outside of marketplace.....(happened to me)

suggest edit and send pm

 

This is most likely because of the weird clutch pedal assembly that Nissan put in the Z. The spring action is NOT linear. If you remove the pedal assembly and actuate it on a table you can clearly see that it resembles a compound bow. Why Nissan decided to do this I have no idea but I just recently bought RJM's replacement clutch pedal assembly which is indeed linear and all of my complaints have been remedied. In my opinion it is a must have if you are not happy with the stock clutch.

http://www.rjmperformance.com/index.html

https://my350z.com/forum/engine-and-...l-bracket.html

 

Wow really, OK thanks for heads up

 

This. RJM bracket assembly made my clutch engagement feel 100x better.

Also, I would suggest just doing the JWT kit and be done with it. When I had the setup on my Z, it really wasn't that loud/chattery.