Q: Thanks for the reply Tevor. Correct, right hand drive GTi 180 (RC) with hyd clutch. The car has just hit the 50 000km mark. I did a big stomp on brake and clutch while doing a sharp left corner and that was it. Basically the call is drop the box out and have a look?? Cheers Draftadave
A: 4 hours and no answer for you? Ok, I will give an educated guess. First, it may be that your "release bearing" has worn down to be too thin to press against the clutch spring. It is a spinning bearing that must have a certain thickness to it. If it is worn 2mm, it's as if your clutch cable is 2mm too long. (BUT, the 206 doesn't have a clutch cable) Secondly, No matter what car you have, the clutch SPRING should be resistant to your foot's pressure. The big heavy metal spring has about 18 thin metal triangles on it, which bend when your foot depresses them. I am guessing your "splines" are deeply grooved from years of contact with the release bearing. You can't really push on the spring firmly. Because the spring doesn't fully release the thin "driven clutch disc" from the flywheel, you are shifting gears while the two surfaces are still slightly touching....thus a 'shudder' in all gear changes. Ok. that's my educated guess. If left to worsen, you may loose a small spring (one of 4) in the driven plate. This will cause your clutch to lock up, you'll be stuck in THAT gear, and forced to drive home in only one gear. EDITED LATER: 50,000 kilometers is toooo soon for a new clutch. I now more suspect the release bearing has failed in some way?? Well, don't 'drop the gearbox' until you get an educated opinion from somebody in your area. The best 'car doctor' is one that is next to the car. Yes? I am only giving thoughts based on your info, and my personal experience. good luck, and report back here, or an email to me.