2002 WRX all 100% stock. Had a new OEM-type Exedy clutch installed by a "professional" shop, Scott's "Integrity" Automotive in Concord, NH. Shop did resurface the flywheel. Everything was WORKING PERFECTLY PRIOR to the new clutch install, only issue was the clutch was just barely staring to slip in high gears on steep up-hills. After new clutch install the pedal stuck down upon release and the clutch engaged only micro-inches off the floor. Sticking problem worst when cold, when totally warmed-up not so bad. Always engages WAY too low at any temp. Immed brought the car back to the shop to get this new fault corrected. No improvement. Brought it back a second time, still no improvement. Frustrated after spending BIG BUCKS!!!! Shop not cooperative, have a new shop now... Now after some investigation have been advised these WRX have "flex" flywheels and they cannot be resurfaced and that resurfacing the flywheel would cause this exact problem. Also been advised these WRX have a "dual-mass" flywheel. Do not know if either of these are correct. NEED HELP! Any suggestions?
THANK YOU!!!!
-glen

 

Sounds like the slave cylinder seal might have gone, but a bit too much of a coincidence really. No dual mass flywheels on uk cars, not sure about US models, as I take it you're in America. Never heard of the flex flywheel thing either. Sounds like it's been fitted wrong. Is the return spring fitted ok on the clutch release arm?

 

seals can go on the slave after fitment of a full strength clutch but very un-common - more likely they have simply induced air into the system whilst changing the clutch

as for the flywheels the new-age WRX does have a 2piece flywheel but its not a pukka "dual mass" type and is easily skimmed

 

lack of a clutch return spring would not cause the low engagement problem. newly installed Exedy OEM-type clutch engages with pedal only micro-inches off the floor.

 

the new clutch is not a "full strength clutch", it is an Exedy OEM-type clutch and this would not cause the pedal sticking down problem. both of these problems were introduced with the installation of the new Exedy OEM-type clutch. everything worked perfectly prior to install of the new clutch. Still no evidence the shop, Scott's "Integrity" Motors in Concord, NH, USA did NOT botch this install. Car's been back TWICE now with no improvement and Scott's "Integrity" Motors in Concord, NH, USA will not stand behind their workmanship or lack thereof.

 

Sounds like they could of buggered the release bearing.

 

possible they did damage the release bearing but there is no noise or vibration or pedal pulsation whatsoever with the clutch in or out.

 

All above clutch problems have completely disappeared after about 5k miles with new clutch. Works GREAT now!!!! ????????