Panther Clutches ????

[jamesy]

I am thinking about replacing the clutch on the Spider as am off to France in a few weeks ,I have just had the cambelts,variator and waterpump done and was advised that the clutch seemed very heavy, although in fact it has been that way since I got it four years ago and its never bothered me but now of course doubt has set in and am worried that it might go whilst I am away, as will cover over two thousand miles. I have had good reports from friends about Panther clutches but has anyone fitted one onto a 2.0 twinspark and if so what is your opinions.

[Ralf S.]

I've never heard of them.

Having said that, even a shonky clutch will last 50,000 miles, which is about 5 years motoring for most people... so it's worth a punt if it's cheap.

If it's the same sort of money as a Valeo or LUK.. then I'd go with one of those, just out of familiarity.

Change the release bearing at the same time.. and if the slave cylinder is inside the clutch bell-housing, change that too.

Ralf S.

[jamesy]

Decided to go for Valeo as this seems to be what all the Alfa Independants use,got a cracking deal,going to get it fitted next week so all should be fine for the upcoming trip.

[Ralf S.]

Yes, Valeo are probably the best. My old beast has lasted 6-figure mileage.

Just make sure you swap the slave too, if it's inside the bell-housing (though I think it's outside) since the biggest cost is actually the labour rather than the parts themselves.

And make sure your kit comes with a Release bearing (as above).

Ralf S.

[jamesy]

I checked with my local Alfa Specialist this is the proper three part clutch kit so should be ok.