clutch release bearings started making a noise, will my clutch last long?

[Khare]

As title, when I press clutch in, including in neutral and when I press it ever so slightly, I can hear bearings grinding away, so clutch release bearings are on the last legs. Question is...How long until clutch needs replacing? or it goes bang?

Replacement is £80 from AVS car parts and its the sachs replacement, comes with the whole fitting kit which aint too bad but changing clutch is a pain in the arsehole which is what I dread + I don't have the tools to do the job. (DH?  )

[AudiA8Quattro]

8v clutch release bearing is in the end of the gearbox.
You can do it with the gearbox still in the car, you need to remove the end cap.

[boneybradley]

the bearing isn't part of a clutch kit usually and it is actually located under the green cover on the side of the box (and not where usual)
If your sure its the bearing you need that (around £8) and the green cover (around £8)

[Khare]

Interesting. What tools are needed for the job? Also, it is a hard job? Does it require any presses or specialist equipment or wll I be able to do it with a socket set and some basic tools?

[boneybradley]

a decent jack to lift the engine/drop the box for access (recommended) and something to prise the metal green cover of the box and I think that's about it (small hands/fingers help).....I can do them in about 5 minutes now 

[Khare]

ah so only 5 mins to change the bearings? no need to use a bearing press or any complicated tooling?

[boneybradley]

nope it just behind the clutch lever (which may need the clip removing to get the bearing out?) and simply slots in

[Khare]

ah sounds like a pretty easy job then. GSF sel te release bearings?

[boneybradley]

yes...and I jacked the offside of the engine up on mine as clearance is fairly limited (this should tilt the box downwards)

[robz]

really easy job m8!
as boney said...
if you search my posts somewhere there is a diagram guide on hoe to do it!!

btw - mine lasted 9 months!!
hth