Clutch Spring Removal Review + Tip (For Dual Spring Models)

[vincE92M3]

I decided to give removing my clutch spring from my MY 2011 M3. I was looking to get rid of some of the clutch engagement ambiguity and springy-ness of the factory setup.

In my 2011, I had the dual-spring design with an outer and inner spring. First, I tried removing the entire spring assembly completely, but this made the pedal feel sloppy with the lateral wiggling when the clutch pedal was extended to the top.

This was not acceptable to me, so I tried removing the outer spring of the assembly and kept the inner spring. This seemed to compromise both worlds. The pedal definitely has a more defined engagement point and it does feel slightly stiffer and allows for better shifts. However, there is still a bit more lateral movement than stock, since the spring tension is not as great as with both springs together. There is also the dead wiggle room of about an inch when the pedal sits at the top. This is a GREAT improvement in feel over the stock configuration. I'm happy with the result considering it is FREE.

However, the lateral wiggling and extra dead-space up top are slightly present. So, I have decided to get the Ultimate Clutch pedal, which should resolve both. The metal construction will also lead to a more rigid feel I am hoping.

I couldn't find much info via search about the inner/outer spring methods with the dual-spring designs, so thought I would share.

Thanks!

[ashtaron14]

Thanks for the detailed write-up.

I wanted to, but decided to not mess with it, and bought an eBay clutch stop. The UCP don't fit RHD cars, which is bummer.

[vincE92M3]

I would say that removing the outer spring would be worth a try if you have the dual-spring version, but it still leaves something to be desired.

[squartus]

Been thinking about getting the Ultimate Clutch pedal myself. Let us know your thoughts on it once you get it in.

[vincE92M3]

Originally Posted by squartus

Been thinking about getting the Ultimate Clutch pedal myself. Let us know your thoughts on it once you get it in.

I should hopefully have it by this weekend. Will update this thread w/ my thoughts!

[vincE92M3]

UCP installed and feels fantastic. I was able to install it in about 30 minutes. Instructions were very thorough. Pedal feels more linear and the travel is lessened. Most of all the jiggling is no-more! High quality piece for sure.

I have my outer spring removed and on the mount furthest from the driver and closest to the firewall. For those with the UCP, is this the stiffest setting with the spring attached?

[vincE92M3]

The UCP was also very easy to drill into for the performance pedal covers.

[thekurgan]

I'm glad you like it, it's definitely a beefy piece and makes the OE pedal look like a fisher-price kid's toy.

[vincE92M3]

Originally Posted by thekurgan

I'm glad you like it, it's definitely a beefy piece and makes the OE pedal look like a fisher-price kid's toy.

Thanks for your feedback that pushed me to purchase!

[e92zero]

Originally Posted by vincE92M3

Thanks for your feedback that pushed me to purchase!

Thanks for the picture and the feedback. Was your oem plastic one cracked at the pedal or just the lighting/line?

[vincE92M3]

Originally Posted by e92zero

Thanks for the picture and the feedback. Was your oem plastic one cracked at the pedal or just the lighting/line?

No it wasn't cracked. I think the line there is just from the plastic molding?

[thekurgan]

Originally Posted by vincE92M3

No it wasn't cracked. I think the line there is just from the plastic molding?

Yeah, mine has that too, maybe during the forming process.

[e92zero]

Originally Posted by vincE92M3

No it wasn't cracked. I think the line there is just from the plastic molding?

Thanks! This will be on my list of mod to do in the next month or 2.

[RocketBoots]

Did you attach the spring that attaches to the bolt in line with your thumb in the picture?



And have you had a chance to try a different setting with the other spring?

[thekurgan]

Yes and yes. I found the hole in the middle to match the OE setup, the top return spring fits nicely.

[RocketBoots]

Originally Posted by thekurgan

Yes and yes. I found the hole in the middle to match the OE setup, the top return spring fits nicely.

Thanks

Would the spring position in the picture, farthest away from the pedal itself, be sort of like a spring delete?

Middle spot=OEM; Closest to pedal=stronger spring effect; Farthest away=least spring effect?

[thekurgan]

Farthest seemed stiffer to me but I left in the middle. I really wanted the lower height and butter smoothness from it. I'm glad you like it; best mod so far for the interior.

[vincE92M3]

I have my spring in the hole closest to the driver i believe for the stiffest pedal feel. It felt a bit too stiff at first, but a few days of driving on it and i wouldn't have it any other way. I also have my outer spring removed.

[Sered]

I have no spring on mine. Makes modulating my Spec Twin disc ptrim a breeze.

If I ever get another manual M3, the ucp will be one of the first mods done. It's just that good.

[Franzino]

I have fitted the UCP pedal (on my M2) and want to test it with the dual spring fitted back in...anyone has an idea which side of the spring goes up? The dark or light side...or the side with the outer spring most compressed or least compressed?

[shrimp_chips]

Originally Posted by Franzino

I have fitted the UCP pedal (on my M2) and want to test it with the dual spring fitted back in...anyone has an idea which side of the spring goes up? The dark or light side...or the side with the outer spring most compressed or least compressed?

Black side attaches to the pedal. As far as settings, the instructions say..from the driver to the firewall- Race-Sport-Stock. OP I believe yours in the stock position.