05 Alhambra 130 TDi ASZ Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) knocking

[dunkley201]

My Alhambra has done some 126k and is merely used as my ‘shed’ and “grandad’s taxi”. The DMF is making an alarming knocking from cold (OK when warmed up) such that I know I have to get a clutch/flywheel change before something serious happens. The car is not worth a great deal but seems too good to scrap.

My question is: There are a number of sellers on the ‘bay offering solid flywheel/clutch kits as a replacement for the standard DMF. This option offers a considerable saving in parts cost. Are there any serious disadvantages other than some possible increase in NVH?

Bob

[KevTrem]

Dont know what its like on VAG engines but on Peugeot HDi engines some people opted to have a solid flywheel fitted to save money, on some of them the vibration was so severe it snapped the crank, on others they paid to have another DMF fitted because of the vibration, so cost them twice.
Personally in your situation I would fit another DMF with clutch and run the car, your likely to never have to change it again for the life of the car. Also it may cost you £600 to have it changed but how much would it cost you to change the car??

[dunkley201]

Thanks for your quick reply Kev. Interesting to learn of the Pug issues. I fully understand your reasoning. Trouble is, a fully working 2005 Alhambra with 126k on it is not worth much, if any, much more than that £600, so it really is a question of fix or scrap. Engine is superb, good interior, Michelin Alpin 5s all round but not worth anything but scrap value with DMF gone. There are other issues: front end rattles despite replacing shocks and donuts; central locking; air con leak yet to be identified. Will be interesting if Crasher pops up with his VW opinion.

Seriously thinking of scrapping the SEAT, then p/ex the LR2 (which is still perfect and has been superb) for a decent Volvo XC90. I then get the 4x4 and 7 seater in one package. Saves on RFL and insurance.

Bob