Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the manual transaxle assembly from the vehicle. Refer to TRANSAXLE REPLACEMENT in Manual Transmission -MK5 or TRANSAXLE REPLACEMENT in Manual Transmission - MTN.
Use the J 35271 in order to hold the flywheel before removing the bolts.

Fig 1: Holding Flywheel
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Slowly and evenly loosen the 6 clutch pressure plate cover bolts (2) until the clutch pressure plate spring tension is completely released.
Remove the 6 clutch pressure plate cover bolts and the pressure plate from the flywheel.
Remove the clutch disc from the flywheel.
Clean the flywheel (2) and the clutch pressure plate-to-clutch disc (1, 3) mating surfaces of the following substances:
- Oil
- Grease
- Metallic particles
Clean the clutch disc (1) using a clean dry cloth.
Inspect the flywheel (2) and the clutch pressure plate (3) for the following conditions:
- Cracks
- Heat checking
- Grooves
- Excessive wear
- Bent or broken pressure plate spring levers
- Weak or damaged diaphragm spring
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Flywheel, Clutch Disk, And Pressure Plate
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
NOTE: If any of the following conditions exist, do not attempt to disassemble or repair the clutch pressure plate. If the flywheel or the clutch pressure plate appears excessively worn, replace the flywheel and/or clutch pressure plate as necessary.
Inspect the clutch disc for the following conditions:
- Cracks
- Excessive wear
- Damaged or weak torsional springs
Use J 26900-5 in order to measure the clutch disc (1) wear. Measure the depth of each rivet head depression (2). The following specifications are standard rivet head depth measurements:
Replace the clutch disc if the clutch rivet depth is less than 0.3 mm (0.012 in).

Fig 3: Measuring Clutch Disc Wear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.