My '08 Sahara is at the dealer for transmission repair. I thought a clutch replacement would be good thing to do while it's all apart. It has 87K miles and I'm not the original owner so not sure when/if the clutch was ever done.

I'm probably going to get the Centerforce Dual Friction kit (disk and pressure plate) but it's not cheap. Are there good, more cost effective alternatives?

Will also do throwout bearing (any brands to seek or avoid?) Summit has one for $39... OMIX-ADA Throwout Bearing 16906.06

Anything else to take care of? Pilot bearing?

Thanks!

 

Might want to also consider SPEC clutches.

I would stick with National or Timken on the throwout bearing.

 

Anything but the stock TOB is what is needed.
That thing is a joke and starts singing .

How much are they charging? I'm at 90k but if it's too pricey to have done I'll have to give it a try

 

Curious about this too. I'm at 83k on stock clutch. It's about time

 

Definitely replace your clutch assembly while in there.

I've installed too many clutches to count and agree on spending the $ on quality components. Centerforce is fine, although I personally don't advise spending the extra $ on our low revving applications. Sure, pedal force is slightly reduced but whatever, I'd drive a Honda if that was an issue for me.

If you're looking for a quality, stock replacement setup, Luk is one I would recommend and they are also OEM suppliers. Looks like Rockauto has a kit for $159.

PS: it's a common mistake for shops/mechanics to get lazy and sometimes not replace the pilot bearing. Don't let that happen, make sure they do so.

 

Fredrok so besides the luk clutch kit what needs to be bought?

 

Pilot bearing (or bushing depending on oem), TO bearing, disc and PP. It seems from the description that Luk kit may contain all. The only additional would be to have the flywheel surfaced as well. That's another "lazy shop" missed item that is mandatory. Not to say you or your shop would be but make sure it's done.

At times, you can have wear on input shaft bearing retainers (collars), clutch forks, pivots, etc. that aren't usually replaced yet may need to be so inspect ancillary components well.

PS: The TO bearing (release bearing) has always been the Achilles heel for these JKs. You may want to consider the possibility of one from Timken/SKF/National, etc. (as mentioned but one in the same these days) if the one that comes with the Luk kit you find a little lightweight. That said, I've heard of issues (occasional chirping) from any brand, seems to be luck of the draw.

However : http://project-jk.com/images/tsb/TSB_06-002-07.pdf

 

My throwout bearing went bad. I replaced the clutch at the same time, but the OEM one was actually in decent shape. I've been driving manual transmission for a half century, and take it easy on my vehicles. Still, the Centerforce dual-force, which I did install, is very nice. Has a lighter pedal than stock, which most folks like. I'd also recommend changing out the engine rear main seal while in there--mine started failing about 135 miles. Whoever does the install should also replace the pilot bearing, and inspect the fork and ball for wear. The flywheel may also need resurfacing. I also recommend deviating from the factory service manual and pulling out the exhaust line. If you do that, it makes access a lot easier, but you'll want to replace the four bolts and nuts that attach it to the exhaust manifold--they will be severely rusted (nature of the beast). These are special hardware you'll need to buy from the dealer. We had to search all over Oklahoma City after the local distributor for most car dealerships in five states didn't have what we needed to find the parts, so order them in advance.

My OEM clutch at 95K miles ...


Album with more pictures about the job ...
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?...1&l=4c073f2212

 

I went with the LuK kit. For $200 it came with Clutch Disc, Pressure Plate, Throwout Bearing, Clutch Disc Alignment Tool, and Pilot Bearing. Seems like a good deal for decent parts and a big savings over the Centerforce. Thanks for everyone's input!