Clutch options

[Chris H]

So...clutch is going out in my truck. Have 468 with 465 muncie and 205 transfer case. Trying to find good clutch to put in that dont cost an arm and a leg. Summit racing trying to get me to buy a $2000 clutch. Looking for something that will handle the 5-600hp range. What has worked for you guys?

 

[roundhouse]

I got a new non Chinese clutch and pressure plate from NAPA for about $250 but mine was a stock 350 engine , it was being driven by my 16 yr old son but had no issues with it

500 HP could be a problem with a stock clutch
I guess it depends on if you drive like a 16 yr old or if you drive like a 60 yr old
Although popping a clutch with 600 HP would usually result in a lot of wheel spin

 

[Chris H]

Lol. I know how I drove when I was 16....lots of wheel spin!!!

 

[nvrenuf]

McLeod makes some pretty cool dual disc stuff for racers. Southbend and Valair (?) make stuff for high power diesel applications, not sure about gas though.

If you’re truly making 500-600 hp then I’d bet you need to spend $1000-$1200 for a real clutch. Cheap stuff is cheap stuff.

 

[Nonstop]

I have a Sachs clutch in mine. It has held up to a big block and towing heavy along with pulling stumps. I do not drive like a 16 year old (too cheap to keep buying tires), but it has lasted quite a while. I bought it to replace my Centerforce Dual Friction when the hub on the clutch disc snapped off during normal driving.

 

[Chris H]

McLeod makes some pretty cool dual disc stuff for racers. Southbend and Valair (?) make stuff for high power diesel applications, not sure about gas though.

If you’re truly making 500-600 hp then I’d bet you need to spend $1000-$1200 for a real clutch. Cheap stuff is cheap stuff.

No clue of how much horsepower it be making. I just looked up on the Internet about how much horsepower they would put out on average. Just want something that'll hold up just in case. Thanks for the input.

 

[Snoots]

I've used RAM and McLeod clutches and have no complaints.

I don't think you need to spend 4 figures on a clutch tho to get something good and Made In America.

 

[Chris H]

I agree. 2 Grand is overkill. I don't mind spending three to five hundred bucks if I have to for something decent

 

[Chris H]

So I went with centerforce for a clutch. Installed and throw out bearing position seems too far off center. Instructions say self centering throw out bearing, but it seems too much. New fork same as old but I am wondering if I need longer fork. I will try and post a pic but having trouble doing that. What are some thoughts. Will it all settle into place? Seems unlikely to me. First time changing out a clutch so I'm unsure. Thanks.

 

[Chris H]

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[nvrenuf]

I believe the bearing should be centered on the clips at the end of the fork, not deep in the fork opening.

I could be wrong, it's been a while. Probably lots of YouTube videos on the subject, maybe double check there.

 

[dvdswan]

I believe the bearing should be centered on the clips at the end of the fork, not deep in the fork opening.

I could be wrong, it's been a while. Probably lots of YouTube videos on the subject, maybe double check there.

I've always thought that it just "floats" in the center over the fingers. The 2 clips were just there to hold the bearing during the install. I've never put grease on the fork/throw-out bearing either. Have I been doing it incorrectly?

As far as the clutch? How many launches are you planning on doing? When I built my 76 K5 as a kid I used a Mcleod clutch kit, had the flywheel and clutch assembly balanced with the engine. Lots of burnouts, launches, and just plan showing off. Never had an issue. Estimate about 450 HP. Lots of fun. I miss my K5.

 

[WFO]

That throw out bearing just needs to be slid to the center.
I'd be more worried about that glob of grease slinging onto the clutch plate.

 

[Chris H]

I've always thought that it just "floats" in the center over the fingers. The 2 clips were just there to hold the bearing during the install. I've never put grease on the fork/throw-out bearing either. Have I been doing it incorrectly?

As far as the clutch? How many launches are you planning on doing? When I built my 76 K5 as a kid I used a Mcleod clutch kit, had the flywheel and clutch assembly balanced with the engine. Lots of burnouts, launches, and just plan showing off. Never had an issue. Estimate about 450 HP. Lots of fun. I miss my K5.

I got a centerforce clutch that is supposed to handle more than stock power. Figured around 425hp. Said to grease area on for where bearing goes. I have too much. Lol. Will wipe most off. Says good for street and strip. Good grip for some dragging. Mine is a beast with 4/11's so more pulling than racing. Was slipping before I think so looking forward on how it does after break in period.