User: How to replace clutch on my 87 gt convertible
Assistant: Replacing the clutch on your 1987 Toyota Celica GT convertible (ST162) is a significant task that typically involves removing the engine or the transmission. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
### Tools and Materials Needed
– Standard mechanic’s tool set (sockets, wrenches, etc.)
– Torque wrench
– Clutch kit (including clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing)
– Flywheel (if needed)
– Engine hoist or transmission jack
– Clutch alignment tool
– High-quality grease (for the throw-out bearing)
– New rear main seal (recommended to replace while you’re in there)
### Procedure
1. **Preparation:**
– Ensure the car is on a flat surface and securely supported on jack stands.
– Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues.
2. **Removing the Engine/Transmission:**
– If you plan to pull the engine, disconnect all necessary components (e.g., cooling system, wiring harness, fuel lines, etc.) to ensure you can lift it out easily.
– If removing the transmission, you might want to support the engine from above and unbolt the transmission without removing the engine.
3. **Accessing the Clutch:**
– Remove the transmission cover and unbolt the transmission from the engine (typically involves several bolts).
– Carefully slide the transmission off the engine to expose the clutch assembly.
4. **Removing the Old Clutch:**
– Unbolt the pressure plate from the flywheel (be sure to loosen the bolts in a criss-cross pattern to avoid warping the plate).
– Remove the clutch disc and inspect the flywheel for wear or damage.
5. **Installing the New Clutch:**
– If you’re replacing the flywheel, secure it to the crankshaft following the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
– Install the new clutch disc using the alignment tool, ensuring that it is oriented correctly (typically, the flat side faces the flywheel).
– Attach the new pressure plate and torque it properly.
6. **Reassembling:**
– Reinstall the flywheel cover if applicable.
– Slide the transmission back into place (if you removed it), ensuring that it mates properly with the clutch.
– Reconnect any wiring, fluid lines, and mounts that were disconnected prior.
– If you pulled the engine, you will need to reconnect everything that was disconnected.
7. **Final Checks:**
– Reconnect the battery.
– Before starting the engine, check the clutch fluid reservoir and top it off if necessary.
– Pump the clutch pedal to ensure it feels firm; bleed the hydraulic system if needed.
8. **Test Drive:**
– Once everything is reassembled, take your Celica for a test drive to ensure the clutch engages smoothly and there are no leaks.
### Additional Tips
– Always check the condition of the rear main seal and replace it if necessary, as it can save you from a major issue later down the line.
– It’s considered good practice to resurface the flywheel if it shows signs of wear or scoring.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully replace the clutch in your 1987 Celica GT convertible. If any specific processes or steps within this guide are unclear, feel free to ask for further clarification!