Buying a 172... help please!

[87poweram]

Hi guys! I'm new here (currently without a clio) and would love some help...

So.... I have been looking around for the past few weeks to try and pick up a cheapish Ph2 172. Finally I find one suitable! 2002 97k miles, full service history with belts done at 70k.

But it has a few niggles so I though I'd ask you guys for your opinion before I commit to buying.

When the clutch pedal is pressed, the clutch makes a tiny whinning noise. I'm certain it's the clutch release bearing. Although it was the owner who told me, he also said it's only been making a noise for a week....

How long before these release bearings really go? And when it does, I'll attempt the clutch/bearing replacement myself, whilst keeping everything in situ hopefully. Will this be really difficult on my driveway with some limited tools?! Perhaps I'll just take it to the garage.............
Either way, the car is pretty damn cheap, so hence my consideration.

Thoughts?

 

[Mar172]

97k on its first clutch I would change it but it's a big job

 

[Mar172]

You say belts done at 70k how long ago was that ?

 

[87poweram]

Cam belt done at 70k, 2-3 years ago. So I should have another year before it needs doing again...

How much would the clutch+labour be at a garage?

 

[Mar172]

Where are you from ? I paid £ 450 supplied and fitted .

 

[87poweram]

I'm in south London area... £450 isn't too bad. Where was that?

 

[Chi]

Dan@SJM I think I heard him say £300ish but don't quote me..

 

[Dan@SJM]

£350 fitted from myself.

 

[Rob669]

My clutch lasted 120,000 miles and with track events and when it did come out it was still fine!

Doing it all in-situ is a hassle (so pay Dan!) or take the engine out (needs more than limited tools though).

Change the cable first if it squeaks (not easy but is possible - getting a cable through the bulkhead can be tricky unless you've seen the angle to do it with the engine bay empty) and spray the back of the fork inside the housing with some grease.

Remember you are buying a fairly old car so you might want to be prepared to learn how to fix it up. Become a member here and you'll get lots of good advice.