Can a Volkswagen Dry Dual Clutch Be Replaced with a Wet Dual Clutch?
1 Answers
Theoretically, it is possible to replace, but the cost is high because it's not just about replacing the clutch plates—the entire transmission needs to be replaced together. Additionally, proper matching between the engine and the transmission must be ensured. Advantages and Disadvantages of Dry and Wet Dual Clutches: The dry dual clutch offers higher transmission efficiency, but if it remains in a semi-clutch state similar to a manual transmission for prolonged periods during low-speed driving, it can easily overheat. For example, Volkswagen's 1.8T and 2.0T models use wet dual clutches. Although wet dual clutches are not as efficient in transmission as dry ones, the clutch plates are immersed in oil, effectively solving the heat dissipation issue. Moreover, wet dual-clutch transmissions are fully enclosed, making them more waterproof. Differences Between Dry and Wet Dual Clutches: Since dry dual clutches lack hydraulic oil and accompanying cooling systems, they are lighter in weight compared to wet dual clutches, providing more direct transmission and higher efficiency (resulting in better fuel economy). However, due to the inherent nature of dry dual clutches relying on friction plates to transmit torque, when driving in congested conditions requiring frequent stops and starts, the transmission temperature rises quickly. Additionally, as they rely on air cooling for heat dissipation, the cooling effect is not as efficient as wet dual clutches. Therefore, dry dual clutches are more prone to failures due to overheating in complex and congested driving conditions.
