Clutch questions
 

After almost twenty years I am back into owning a VW its a 99.5 Golf GL with 149k. The clutch doesn't slip but is a bit notchy, except today I started getting a squeal when the pedal is about halfway on the engagement stroke in first gear. I also perceive a short hesitation or slip of the clutch at about the same time. I can see the hydraulic actuator or whatever it is called was replaced shortly before I purchased the car.

VW and one independent shop have quoted figures in the $800+ range to R&R the clutch. That being said I have done a clutch on an air cooled VW and a Chevy Monza. Just how hard is it to do a Golf clutch and what is the best resource for how to directions? Thanks!

RE: Clutch questions
 

Are you doing OEM clutch, or thinking of doing aftermarket? You can get a really, really nice clutch/flywheel package for great price. They aren't to hard to anyways...just splitting the tranny and motor sux.

RE: Clutch questions
 

I was thinking OEM. I do want to make sure this is the one and only time I have to do this, so I definitely want to avoid garbage parts, but don't see a need for performance parts. I would be willing to devote a weekend to wrenching but don't want to get in over my head. Do I need all kinds of specialty tools? When you split the engine and trans do you have to remove one or both from the car?

RE: Clutch questions
 

well if your just replacing the clutch than it's just a standard job, nothing really special. I don't think I needed any specialty tools, but it is n ice to have certain common tools to get into tight places.