Ok, seems the clutch issue is making the rounds here, and it seems in some cases, even replacing the entire clutch with another OEM Sachs clutch doesn't solve the problem.
So - what OTHER clutches are available that will work in an E46?
I spoke to someone at UUC the other day, and he suggested a M3 clutch might be doable, but would require many modifucations to other driveline components. Too much $$ to be worth it.