Q: How to remove, inspect, and insatall the flywheel/driveplate on Hyundai Elantra?
A: To remove the transaxle, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands, then proceed with the removal. For vehicles equipped with a manual transaxle, take off the pressure plate and clutch disc, ensuring to inspect the clutch components during this process. Make alignment marks on the flywheel/driveplate and crankshaft using a center punch or paint to guarantee correct alignment upon reinstallation. Remove the bolts securing the flywheel/driveplate to the crankshaft, and if the crankshaft rotates, jam it by wedging a screwdriver in the ring gear teeth. Carefully take off the flywheel/driveplate, supporting it while removing the last bolt, and remember that automatic transaxle vehicles have spacers on both sides of the driveplate, which should be kept with it. Inspect the crankshaft rear seal and replace it if leaking before reinstalling the flywheel/driveplate. Clean the flywheel to eliminate grease and oil, checking for cracks, rivet grooves, burned areas, and score marks; light scoring can be addressed with emery cloth. Examine the ring gear for any cracked or broken teeth, and if damaged, replace the flywheel or have a new ring gear pressed onto it. Lay the flywheel on a flat surface to check for warpage using a straightedge, and if excessive, consider resurfacing or replacing it, ideally having it inspected by a competent automotive machine shop. Clean and inspect the mating surfaces of the flywheel/driveplate and crankshaft before positioning the flywheel or driveplate and spacers against the crankshaft, aligning the previously made marks. Some engines may have an alignment dowel or staggered bolt holes for correct installation. Apply thread-locking compound to the bolt threads before tightening them in a criss-cross pattern, gradually working up to the final torque in three or four steps. Finally, install the transaxle and lower the vehicle.