pressure plate problem?

[freeboarder86]

about a week ago my 93 180sx started making this grinding noise when i would shift into 2nd and 3d if the engine was tached out 3 grand or more. ontop of that now it even makes the same noises when the car is idling in traffic with the clutch pushed in or when reversing at a slow speed. it even makes the noise sometimes when i have the clutch pushed in and the car isnt in gear. "THE NOISE" sounds like the noise a car makes when you try to put it into gear without pushing in the clutch but not quite as bad. i think it might be something to do with the pressure plate or something else clutch related.. i hope. ANY HELP would be much appreciated. thanks!

[Irukandji]

Could you record it and host the video on youtube? I'm sure that'd help diagnose the problem MUCH better.

[Dream240]

So the noise is there no matter if the car is in gear or not? And no matter if the pedal is depressed or not? Does the clutch slip at all? Have you checked the tranny fluid? Does the shifter ever slip out of gear? Does the car shift into every gear like normal, except for the noise, or do you have to force it alot?

The first thing I would say is it's time for a new clutch kit. T/O bearing, Pilot bushing, the works. Even if it's just the TO bearing that's the problem, or some busted pressure plate fins, why do the work if you're only changing part of the clutch system? Just do the whole kit that way you get fresh parts with all the same wear.

[freeboarder86]

the noise only happens randomly and ONLY when the clutch pedal is depressed. once in gear with the pedal released the car is fine. no slipping or noises. it shifts fine when the noise doesnt happen but it always does over 3grand. it never slips out of gear.i never have to force it into gear. i am thinking about just going ahead and replacing the whole clutch like you said. any recomendations. im looking for something inexpensive that will handle about 300 hp max. i wont ever run that much but the clutch in it now was a "stage II" clutch and it only lasted about a year. thanks

[Dream240]

Well when the clutch pedal is depressed you are activating the Throw Out bearing.

Any grinding during that time is most likely the TO bearing, or maybe the pressure plate. So yeah sounds like it's time for a new clutch.

As far as affordable, check out SPEC clutches. I got my stage 2 for $296 shipped. I think every stage higher than that is another $30. If this is affordable to you go for it. I personally like my SPEC clutch kit. Good quality, great grab, and good pedal response. Worlds difference from the eGay OEM replacement I had in there.

GL

[opticfilms]

if your car was a auto swap it might not have the throw out bearing

[opticfilms]

if your car was a auto swap it might not have the throw out bearing

[freeboarder86]

what??? how would it even work without the to bearing? its been a year since the swap and its worked fine untill now