Your taxi-driving correspondent may be pleased to know that Valeo does a solid flywheel/clutch replacement for VW Passats and some Fords. I paid £550 to have one fitted, including parts and have had no trouble whatsoever with my 2001 Passat since and I tow a caravan. The Valeo flywheel took about took a week to 'bed in' (or for me to adjust my driving style) but is an absolutely sound piece of kit and apparently lots of taxi drivers in my area fit them and they outlast the base vehicle. Google the Valeo website for more info. The Valeo technical help desk gives further assistance and the part number required.