Clutch/ Timing Belt/ Brakes/ More Questions...

[pietro]

Hi All,

Clutch:

I am thinking of changing my clutch, is it an easy job of not what should it cost at a garage?

Timing belt:

Also I have a timing belt along with water pump with gasket (told that I must do these when I do the belt). Should I change the main bearing too? How much are these and where can I buy one online? Is the timing belt a difficult job and if not how much would the job cost to do this at a garage?

Brakes:

My front right brake is sticking slightly, is this an easy repair? I also noticed when I had the car jacked up that the front left wheel was hard to turn, is this a more severe sticky caliper? Is anyone selling a pair cheap? Is it an easy change? Is there an upgrade?

Rear lights:

How do you change the unit?

Thanks all!

 

[Andrew]

Clutch:
I am thinking of changing my clutch, is it an easy job of not what should it cost at a garage?

Quite a big job, but doesn't need any specialist tools or skills. Probably about 3 hours.

Timing belt:
Also I have a timing belt along with water pump with gasket (told that I must do these when I do the belt). Should I change the main bearing too? How much are these and where can I buy one online? Is the timing belt a difficult job and if not how much would the job cost to do this at a garage?

This is harder to do due to the fiddly engine mount, having to get the two pulleys aligned, scraping the old water pump gasket off. Not sure how long it would take first time. If you mean the main crankshaft bearing... it doesn't need replacing.

Brakes:
My front right brake is sticking slightly, is this an easy repair? I also noticed when I had the car jacked up that the front left wheel was hard to turn, is this a more severe sticky caliper? Is anyone selling a pair cheap? Is it an easy change? Is there an upgrade?

Are you sure it is really sticking? Car wheels are often hard to turn anyway. Changing the pads and calipers is really easy, though some of the bolts can be a little stubborn. Worst part is bleeding the system afters (this might just be me, I hate it).

 

[Herr_spl1ff]

Haha, bleeding the system is ok so long as the bleed nipples come undone & don't shear... grr

As for the calipers, they're easy enough to clean. Unbolt them & carefully peel back the rubber dust seal (break this & it needs replacing, don't know if you can get them separately!). Use WD40 or similar and a rag to clean the piston surface and a pair of pliers or a screwdriver to work the piston back in. Pump it back out with the brake pedal, you might want to put the pads in to stop the piston going too far & to give something to work against. Repeat until action is smooth & make sure everything goes back properly.