tresturbos2

In my '91 200tq 20v, I dropped it at about 3k rpms(I know, bad idea, especially with a chipped car), the revs flew but the car didn't. It accelerated at about half it's usual pace. I immediately turned into a parking lot, and when I got out, there was a strong burnt rubber kind of smell. I know the tires hadn't spun-out, so it must have been the clutch.

Driving it around for the rest of my errands, I didn't notice any slipping of the clutch, but the smell continued. Something is definitely wrong, and I'm afraid it's going to cost me!!

If it is the clutch, will I make things worse by continuing to drive the car? What would be a good source for the part, and what should I expect to pay in parts/labor? Any reasonably priced upgrades to be found?

TIA,

Bollinger

Yes, you burned the clutch. How badly, who knows? There's no reason not to keep driving it if it doesn't slip day-to-day.

So yes, you did a very bad thing, one of the worst things you can do to a clutch. But you don't need to replace the clutch if it is working for you. Watch for slipping under high throttle openings in top gear. When that happens you need to get a new clutch.

tresturbos2

Thanks...Is Blau the best source?

DustysA4

Burnt clutch smell, eww. That one sticks around for a while though.

Bollinger

You know looking again, your clutch lasted 10 years, that's a pretty good run. I'm not sure how much life it had left to shorten.

tresturbos2

The smell has subsided and the clutch engages well. Hopefully I haven't drastically shortened whatever life was left in it. For now, I'm cautiously optimistic, and a lot easier on the clutch!