Matching ZF trans with clutch options

[herlsy]

So i just ordered a ZF trans after changing my mind on the 260.

I currently have the m20i flywheel, clutch disk/pressure plate, pilot bearing and throwout bearing.

Can i use all of these components with the different trans? I was thinking the pilot bearing would be different, but what about the rest?

Thanks in advance for the help

[flyboyx]

you will need a zf pilot bearing and you will need to shave off the back side of your fly. Otherwise, the m20 clutch parts will work as long as you don't try to mix and match the clutch parts with a later model car.

[herlsy]

Thanks for the reply.

When you talk about shaving the flywheel are you talking about the oil pan clearance?

Everything is currently mounted on the car with a g260, i just got a cheap deal on a zf.

[MattM]

or just grab an M50 flywheel.. probably cheaper at a wreaker then to get a machine shop to shave the flywheel

[herlsy]

So are you saying i can't use my m20 flywheel with the ZF trans?

[Wh33lhop]

So are you saying i can't use my m20 flywheel with the ZF trans?

You can. Personally I wouldn't use an M50 flywheel, especially if you've already got the M20 single-mass working. The M50 flywheel is dual-mass, heavy and hard to lighten.

The general rule in this case is, match the clutch and the starter to the flywheel you are using.

Again, as long as you match clutch/flywheel/starter, it should be work. Obviously the pilot bearing should be for the ZF.

And yes, he's referring to oil pan clearance.

[herlsy]

Gotcha, thanks again for the replies!

[Wh33lhop]

Don't forget, if you run the ZF you'll need a different driveshaft (and to un-bend your selector rod if you've got it bent already).

[herlsy]

Yep got it, cheers!

[herlsy]

Ok still unsure about this since i haven't seen anyone confirm they are using it. Anyone out there using this combo? Just a last check before i ditch it all and go with m50 parts. Cheers.

Flywheel: m20 (325i e30)
Clutch pressure plate: e30 325i
Clutch disk: e30 325i
Throwout bearing: e30 325i
Pilot bearing: e34 525i (zf)

I'm thinking the main thing i'm unsure about is the throwout bearing.

[TurboFox93]

How much does it cost to have the flywheel shaved? How much material do you need removed. Also, are there any M5X S5X flywheels that can be purchased new that provide adequate clearance and comparable performance to the M20 flywheel?

[JGood]

How much does it cost to have the flywheel shaved? How much material do you need removed. Also, are there any M5X S5X flywheels that can be purchased new that provide adequate clearance and comparable performance to the M20 flywheel?

I had a local machine shop do it for about $50. It came back fully cleaned and new looking. I think I had him cut it down about 6mm.

[mazur]

Don't forget, if you run the ZF you'll need a different driveshaft (and to un-bend your selector rod if you've got it bent already).

I don't think that one's correct. I've never seen anyone mod their selector rod with this setup.



Also, what car does the ZF come from. My friend and I have noticed that the ones that did not come in the M model (or at least some) require a larger inner diameter pilot bearing.

[JGood]

I don't think that one's correct. I've never seen anyone mod their selector rod with this setup.

His original plan was a 260 trans. You need to bend it for that setup. Since he changed his mind and went with the ZF, he needs an unbent rod.

[herlsy]

Well trans should be here today, i'll have the G260 and ZF side by side so i'll make some comparisons as far as Input shaft length, clutch fork, etc.