Tom Bradley (Maitland NSW)

Hi Allan, after a trip away to Stockton Beach, my trusty 3L GU Patrol finally let go with a loud bang. Much to my surprise it wasn’t the engine that called it quits. The clutch, or more precisely the flywheel, has apparently let go.

I’ve been told that the dual-mass section of the flywheel is now in 2 separate pieces making the clutch slip. From what I can gather, all 3.0L GUs left the factory with a dual-mass flywheel, something about smoothing out the engine. Gee they really know how to complicate a simple truck don’t they!

As the gearbox is getting dropped out anyway, I’ve been researching my options for upgrading to stronger components while I’m at it. I’ve heard so many different stories about whether or not it’s better to swap to a solid flywheel or stick with the factory dual-mass assembly.

If cost was anything to go off, I’d definitely swap to the solid flywheel as I can get the whole job done including the clutch kit and labor for less than it costs for the dual-mass flywheel itself. What I was wondering is what are the benefits or disadvantages that you know of when changing back to a traditional solid flywheel.

Allan

Tom, I would opt out for a solid flywheel any day of the week mate. There’s no disadvantage to having a solid flywheel in a 4WD that I have ever come across. In the trade, a dual-mass flywheel is referred to as a ‘dual-mess’, and for good reason in my opinion. All the best.