Hey Guys,

I posted a thread awhile back about a problem I had and a couple odd noises coming from my 97 Prelude SH.
Well, I finally got around to taking it to the Dealer to get this stuff checked by Honda. Just wanted to give you guys an update, and I had a question.

One noise was a type of groaning sound, that I thought was coming from the suspension (possibly a sway bar rotating in its support) or even the power steering pump. Well, it turns out it is apparently the clutch throw-out bearing, according to the mechanic. He suggested I get the clutch replaced. I've never heard this noise before on any car, and especially not having to do with the clutch, as replacement is usually warranted only after it starts to slip. The clutch doesn't slip at all, so has anyone else had this noise problem and got it fixed? I'm gonna replace the clutch myself eventually, but just wanted to see of anyone else had a similiar problem.

Another thing is I wanted the ATTS fluid replaced, and he told me that they typically DO NOT replace this fluid, as replacing it usually leads to problems. Has anyone ever heard of this? The maintenance schedule clearly says to change it. I just figured it should be changed, as I put 20k miles on it since I got it, and am not sure if/when the previous owner did it. I told him to let it go, as I've had no probs with the ATTS at all since I got the car 20k miles ago.

Any help?

 

Is the noise like a squeaking/grinding when you start in first? If so it's a loose spring in the clutch. I have the same problem and was told that it doesn't cause any problems and it isn't worth replacing a good clutch just stop the noise.

 

I've never heard of people NOT changing their ATTS fluid, especially because it causes problems. In fact, I'm due to get mine changed here soon. Sounds a little to me like they just didn't feel like doing it...

 

Rich- Is that what the noise is? The service manager tried to tell me it was the throw-out bearing... I've heard bad throw-out bearings before, but never a groaning noise. I'm familiar with the chattering type noise.
Cool, well I'm not gonna replace it just yet cause it's not bad, just has that annoying noise.

Cyclops- Yeah it sounded a little fishy when the guy tried to explain to me that "they" normally don't change it. WTF, they are a Honda dealership... At that point I figured I would just change it myself (u know how it is when you want something done right, u gotta do it yourself).

Thanks guys for the help!