Hi,
I recently picked up a 2012 Cooper S. The previous owner had put a SPEC clutch kit and lightweight flywheel in it. I didn't like the setup, so I had the shop put a stock dual mass flywheel and clutch kit back in.

However, the new stock clutch feels way stiffer (heavier pedal) than it should and it squeaks/creaks when I push the pedal. I'm taking the car back into the shop to see what's up, but any advice would be welcome. I was under the impression from reading on the forums and from talking to my mechanic that the new stock clutch would be pretty light and easy going, so I'm a bit confused. Maybe the shop used an old stock clutch kit that was laying around?

Thanks!

 

Usually a stiff pedal is caused by a few different things.
lack of lubrication on moving parts
Pressure plate spring stiffness usually caused by improper break-in or years of abuse.
Hydraulic issues.

I will say sometimes the aftermarket clutches can actually have softer pedal pressures than factory units of they use quality components.

 

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ky-clutch.html

Might want to read that too.

 

Thanks! Seems like it could either be the hydraulic system (master/slave) or... the throw-out bearing! Ugh. If it's the bearing the shop should replace it at no or very little cost. I mean, it would mean they installed it incorrectly or got a defective part from their supplier. I'll know more in a few days after I drop it off.