I'm in the middle of doing a valeo clutch conversion on my 2005 R53. Everywhere I've read says to do various other bits while I'm in there (throwout bearing fork bushings, rear main seal, input shaft seal etc.).
I just picked up a throwout bearing guide sleeve from the dealer and I really don't see anything wrong with my one. No scoring, no wear. The fitment of the throwout bearing on both sleeves feels the same.

Is there any reason why I should still replace it? I can't imagine how this part might 'fail'. Any anecdotes anyone can share?

 

I cant think of any. I replaced mine as the throwout bearing had failed and scored the crap out of it.

 

If you have one, might as well replace it. Mine looked ok when I did my Valeo clutch.....I still installed the new one....can't hurt.

 

So I think my TO bearing is nearing it's end. I'm having difficuly shifting into third fourth and reverse and with the clutch pressed and shifter in first my engine idles real rough.

R50 02-04

Any advice? Special tools? I have a Bentley manual, but I'm currently at work.