To gain access to the clutch parts normally one has to pull out the transaxle. If the engine is taken out, for instance, for a major overhaul, it is also good practice to inspect the clutch for wear and corrosion and replace worn parts because clutch components are relatively cheap for a new one and correspondingly, if the engine or transaxle is removed, it is advis that the clutch be replaced unless it is new or near new. During the removal of clutch disc, there ought to be clutch alignment tool passing through the clutch disc hub to align the clutch disc in the pressure plate the pressure plate-to-flywheel bolts should be tightened before the tool is withdrawn. Also, ensure that the flywheel and the pressure plate have indexing marks, and if they do not, scribe index marks yourself when removing the two for reinstallation. First to ease the pressure plate to flywheel, bolts should be loosened in a criss-cross fashion until a spring tension is released before holding the pressure plate while removing the bolts, pressure plate, and last, but not the least the clutch disc. You don't have to worry about the flywheel requiring frequent replacement, during inspection minor defects if any can be discovered and a machine shop can smooth it out. The clutch disc lining must over lie the rivet heads by 0.063 inches and any sign of the wear or damage on the lining should lead replacement. Regarding the component changes, the clutch disc should be replaced, as well as the slave cylinder and release bearing. Check pressure plate for scoring, cracks and overheating and replace if wears out. Wipe final machined surfaces of the flywheel and pressure plate with a clean rag to remove all the traces of oil and grease finally and always hold these parts with clean hands. Next, align the clutch disc and the pressure plate with the help of an alignment tool as both have to be in the correct direction. Torque the pressure plate-to-flywheel bolts to just until snug, but not tight, and then again, center the clutch disc in the pressure plate and tighten the bolts in a X-pattern to prevent distortion, (if you are using an alignment tool, do not remove until you are sure the pressure plate-to-flywheel bolts are all tightened evenly). Replace the transaxle with all the components that have been removed, and fasten all the bolts and nuts to the correct torque.
