[D's Bimmer]

My clutch on my 2011 e90 335i is slipping. I have heard that the clutch used on the 335is is "interchangeable" and is a better clutch. True?

Any other suggestions? I have heard of people having problems with some the aftermarket clutches, etc.

Looking for suggestions. Something that will hold the power in the 400 hp+ range as I am planning a few additional mods in the next year but nothing crazy.

Thanks,

[Dhillon92]

Mine slips if I shift her too aggressively, there's plenty of reviews in the n54 section. 335is would be closest to stock like but at higher power levels I don't see it being strong enough, it might be the best option if you're gonna keep the dmfw (which I'd say is safe to up to 500tq).

Personally I plan on the spec 2+ w/ steel smfw, probably next year, it's not too high on the priority list right now.

[D's Bimmer]

Originally Posted by Dhillon92

Mine slips if I shift her too aggressively, there's plenty of reviews in the n54 section. 335is would be closest to stock like but at higher power levels I don't see it being strong enough, it might be the best option if you're gonna keep the dmfw (which I'd say is safe to up to 500tq).

Personally I plan on the spec 2+ w/ steel smfw, probably next year, it's not too high on the priority list right now.

Thanks......btw, what does dmfw stand for? I have heard the 335is is the same clutch as the one used in the 550i.

[cahme]

DMFW = Dual Mass FlyWheel

There are plenty of forum claims of 450+ rwhp for me to believe it can easily hold 400. But, the DMFW for our cars (pilot bearing in the flywheel) are different than the N54s (pilot bearing in trans input shaft) and I couldn't find any other than the BMW one @ $1k for the N55. So, going with 335is clutch kit here's a few flywheel options:

1. keep existing flywheel - most say it's not advisable to resurface and you may not even find anyone who will try
2. buy aftermarket SMFW- cheaper & lighter than BMW DMFW provides "easier" reving, but comes at the cost of gear rattle in neutral with clutch engaged (pedal out)
3. buy $1k BMW DMFW

Here's a post with details of the N54/N55 flywheel changes as well as a video of the 335is/SMFW gear rattle.


Alternatively, SPEC Stage 2+ seems to have a good rep in these cars. This clutch disk has a different design (sprung hub) and works with a DMFW or SMFW (probably with less gear rattle than the 335is clutch)

My clutch went at 118k mi and I went with 335is kit. I felt my DMFW was still good and I reused it. I was prepared to go with a MFactory SMFW (and the gear rattle) if I felt my DMFW was used up.

[D's Bimmer]

Thanks for the insight. I am now leaning more towards sticking with OEM stock as I don't really want any problems/rattles/etc. The best local price I have been quoted to replace the clutch with a new OEM one is $750.00 installed(Canadian). Likely will pull the trigger on this later in the spring once the weather warms up and I get my summer tires back on the car.

The assumption in all this is that my existing flywheel is in fine condition and does not require any attention.

Originally Posted by cahme

DMFW = Dual Mass FlyWheel

There are plenty of forum claims of 450+ rwhp for me to believe it can easily hold 400. But, the DMFW for our cars (pilot bearing in the flywheel) are different than the N54s (pilot bearing in trans input shaft) and I couldn't find any other than the BMW one @ $1k for the N55. So, going with 335is clutch kit here's a few flywheel options:

1. keep existing flywheel - most say it's not advisable to resurface and you may not even find anyone who will try
2. buy aftermarket SMFW- cheaper & lighter than BMW DMFW provides "easier" reving, but comes at the cost of gear rattle in neutral with clutch engaged (pedal out)
3. buy $1k BMW DMFW

Here's a post with details of the N54/N55 flywheel changes as well as a video of the 335is/SMFW gear rattle.


Alternatively, SPEC Stage 2+ seems to have a good rep in these cars. This clutch disk has a different design (sprung hub) and works with a DMFW or SMFW (probably with less gear rattle than the 335is clutch)

My clutch went at 118k mi and I went with 335is kit. I felt my DMFW was still good and I reused it. I was prepared to go with a MFactory SMFW (and the gear rattle) if I felt my DMFW was used up.

[Dhillon92]

Just be mindful that its not always the wear of clutch material that causes the slipping, but rather the lack of clamping pressure at higher power levels. (All dependant on how much power you plan on putting down)

[cahme]

Originally Posted by D's Bimmer

Thanks for the insight. I am now leaning more towards sticking with OEM stock as I don't really want any problems/rattles/etc. The best local price I have been quoted to replace the clutch with a new OEM one is $750.00 installed(Canadian). Likely will pull the trigger on this later in the spring once the weather warms up and I get my summer tires back on the car.

The assumption in all this is that my existing flywheel is in fine condition and does not require any attention.

I'd still go with the 335is clutch/pp as it is a direct replacement for stock with more holding power.

I'd not drive it much if it's slipping as the more heat, the more likely to damage the flywheel. Mine was slipping in 3'rd gear when I'd go heavy throttle at under 3000 rpm with JB4. Without JB4, it wouldn't slip, but the clutch was used up.

Also, $750 CDN seems a bit low .. I had $585 CDN ($450 US) in parts alone .. clutch kit, bellhousing bolts, release bearing, pilot bearing, etc

[Ozzie335i]

D, unless you are going to go hog wild with power, stick with the dmfw and the 335is clutch.

[bimmerislife]

I just replace my clutch that the dealership covered under warranty 15k miles ago with a spec 3 (super hard to drive) but im trying to sell it if you need another stock clutch and flywheel

[Jeff@TopGearSolutions]

Originally Posted by bimmerislife

I just replace my clutch that the dealership covered under warranty 15k miles ago with a spec 3 (super hard to drive) but im trying to sell it if you need another stock clutch and flywheel

Spec 3 or 3+ ??

Spec 3 is harder to drive since it's not a full face.

Always go with 2+ or 3+ with the Spec kits.

[bimmerislife]

I believe it was 3+ but not entirely sure

[N54Society]

The 335is clutch is on sale at FCP Euro and comes with a lifetime warranty. This is a slick deal as far as I'm concerned.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...mw-21207603248

[D's Bimmer]

Originally Posted by vbp6us

The 335is clutch is on sale at FCP Euro and comes with a lifetime warranty. This is a slick deal as far as I'm concerned.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...mw-21207603248

SO even those my specific car is not listed, I am to understand that this kit is perfect for my car? I just want to be sure before I order.

[loesch]

Originally Posted by D's Bimmer

SO even those my specific car is not listed, I am to understand that this kit is perfect for my car? I just want to be sure before I order.

I have one that I'm looking to sell. Need to go with with a 3+ instead. If you're interested PM me and maybe we can work out a deal.

[N54Society]

Originally Posted by D's Bimmer

SO even those my specific car is not listed, I am to understand that this kit is perfect for my car? I just want to be sure before I order.

Yes that will work on your car.

[Jeff@TopGearSolutions]

FCP Euro offers a great deal with that lifetime guarantee, if it doesn't put them out of business honoring free replacements on wear items LOL

PSA: All jokes aside, we get a lot of guys ordering the wrong flywheels when trying to mate up to the 335is. Make sure you guys tell your vendor of choice which clutch you have when buying a flywheel. I've had an abundance of returns because people doing know which to buy.

[cahme]

^^^^ that is the exact clutch kit I used in my '11 N55

[snaimpally]

The 335is clutch is the best OEM solution.

[slickBB1]

For those who've installed the 335is clutch to the OEM DMFW, where did you guys get the clutch alignment tool for self adjusting clutches with the lock ring?

[D's Bimmer]

Originally Posted by Jeff@TopGearSolutions

FCP Euro offers a great deal with that lifetime guarantee, if it doesn't put them out of business honoring free replacements on wear items LOL

PSA: All jokes aside, we get a lot of guys ordering the wrong flywheels when trying to mate up to the 335is. Make sure you guys tell your vendor of choice which clutch you have when buying a flywheel. I've had an abundance of returns because people doing know which to buy.

Jeff, what have you got in terms of a clutch kit? I am hopeful that I do not need to address the flywheel. My 2011 335i 6MT has 235,000kms on it and I am slipping in 3rd gear. Should me a PM as to what you recommend and I would be happy to place my order through you.

Thanks,

[Cory S]

Spec stage 2 is all you will ever need. No need for 2+/3+..... 75% of people over clutch their setups.

My Spec stage 2 held over 800hp just fine..... On TWO different builds. They are very under rated.

[D's Bimmer]

I am guessing that with 235,000 km's on my car, that I should probably replace my flywheel as well?

Should I stay with the OEM DMFW or can I go with something less expensive or possibly a single mass flywheel if I go with the SPEC Stage 2+?