Removal Procedure

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

Fig 1: Transaxle & Actuator Release Bearing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the transaxle. Refer to Transmission Replacement in Manual Transmission - Getrag-5 Speed.
Inspect the actuator release bearing minimal bearing drag.
Replace the actuator assembly if no or little drag is found. Refer to Clutch Actuator Cylinder Replacement .

IMPORTANT: Remove the bolts in a progressive crisscross pattern to prevent warping of the cover stamping.

Remove the pressure plate assembly to flywheel bolts.
Remove the pressure plate assembly and clutch disc.

Fig 2: Inspecting Clutch Pressure Plate Assembly Surface For Damage

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Random black spotting on the friction surface of the clutch pressure plate assembly is normal.

Inspect the clutch pressure plate assembly surface for the following conditions:
- Excessive wear
- Chatter marks
- Cracks
- Overheating - indicated by blue discoloration
Replace the clutch pressure plate assembly if damaged.
Using a straight edge and a feeler gage, inspect the clutch pressure plate assembly for warpage.
Specification: Maximum warpage: 0.15 mm (0.006 in)

Fig 3: Inspecting Clutch Disc For Damage

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the clutch disc facings for oil or burnt spots.
Replace the clutch disc if necessary.
Inspect the clutch disc for the following conditions:
- Loose damper springs
- Hub
- Rivets
Replace the clutch disc if any components are broken or excessively loose.

Fig 4: Inspecting Flywheel Ring Gear For Damage

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the flywheel ring gear for wear or damage.
Replace the flywheel if damaged.

IMPORTANT: Random black spotting on the friction surface of the flywheel is normal.

Inspect the flywheel to clutch disc contact surface for the following conditions:
- Wear
- Cracks
- Chatter marks
- Overheating - indicated by blue discoloration
Repair or replace the flywheel if necessary.

Fig 5: Measuring Flywheel Runout

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Using a dial indicator, for at least two revolutions, measure flywheel runout.
Specification: Maximum runout: 0.15 mm (0.006 in)
Repair or replace the flywheel if not within specification.

Fig 6: Inspecting Flywheel For Warpage Using Straight Edge & Feeler Gage

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Using a straight edge and a feeler gage, inspect the flywheel for warpage.
Specification: Maximum warpage: 0.15 mm (0.006 in)

Fig 7: Flywheel-To-Crankshaft Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

If the flywheel is being replaced, remove and discard the flywheel-to-crankshaft bolts and remove the flywheel.