DDK - Die Deutschen Klassiker

i have just picked up my 912 from the mechanic afted having the rear main oil seal changed. The clutch is now making a whering noise when depressed. Is this a coincidence or could removing the engine and then replacing it cause this kind of problem

sounds like the clutch release bearing ( wirring noise with pedal depressed)

My 2.4S also make this noise as did my old Audi A4 quattro. Unless it gets significantly louder / worse I wouldn't worry about it too much. Just make a note to replace it next time the engine is out /c lutch plate replaced.

BTW, the release bearing in my Audi started making the noise circa 30000 miles and still made the noise when we sold it with over 130000 miles

Normally noises that occur when the clutch pedal is down are something to do with the clutch release bearing: I take it the clutch is still your original one?

If it's been replaced, it may be a faulty release bearing. If not, then your chap may have damaged the bearing, allowed dirt into it, stressed it (hitting, bending etc) or similar. Might be worth double checking the clutch adjustment though, just in case it's over releasing and causing a foul somewhere.

It might simply be a case that it was a bit tired anyway, and now it's been replaced (and you're thinking about that area of the car) it's a bit noiser than before?

Sorry I can't suggest anything else. BTW Noises with clutch up: gearbox, clutch down: release bearing or very occasionally failed engine thrust bearings ( ). I tried a Triumph TR6 for someone once: he was complaining that the engine kept trying to stall when the clutch pedal went down. Turned out that the crank was being pushed forwards by 4-6mm, trying to bend the conrods over as it went. No wonder the engine didn't like it: the thrust bearings were later found in the sump .

Anyway, I'd have a quick word with your man, and ask him whether there was anything suspect about the clutch release bearing.

Beat me to it, James .

Must sign up for that typing course .

Barry, its just that you are better than me at covering these things in detail and thus it take you a bit longer to type it all out

I go with James as well. Had a release bearing on a Peugeot 405 for well over 100,000 miles with no problems.

It's a good point: I've often certainly known of noisy R/bearings, but think I've only ever done one that actually failed.

Still worth mentioning to you 'little man that does' just in case there's a simple explaination .

Be interested to hear if you get it sorted / decide to live with it, or whatever ....

Thanks for your input I'll let you know the outcome.