I am installing a 350 cu in engine , around 365 hp, mated to a Borg warner gearbox, w/3:08 rear. The car is strictly a cruise nite/show car. I don't beat it, pop the clutch etc. I would like a resonable clutch pressure plate , throw out package. Easy pedal effort is very important. (Broke my left knee) I don't need anything exotic, I want low maintenance, not necessarily cheap, I just don't need to waste money. How about some suggestions??? GM or aftermarket
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Re: New clutch package
Don------
You didn't mention what your specific application is and that makes a difference. In any event, most of the GM clutch components are discontinued so that's really not an option anymore unless you find NOS.
For you GENERAL application and stated requirements, I'd suggest going with a stock-type LUK/Sachs replacement clutch. I think that it will work perfectly for you and it's available as a kit with all the componets you need. Otherwise, a Centerforce I would work well, too, but it will be a bit more expensive than the LUK unit.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: New clutch package
As per the recommendations on the discussion board, I installed a LUK clutch set in my '67 big block and am very happy with it. (Don't know if it was really necessary, but I had it balanced before installation)Comment
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Re: New clutch package
Don,
I installed a LUK clutch (believe i got it from mid america?) on my 69 350/350 hp. I have found that it is a fairly "light effort" clutch and definitely not a left leg muscle builder. I dont remember if there were different types of clutches available from LUK but I am pretty sure i got the "standard"/street-type clutch (no race/heavy duty stuff).
Kenny #31871Comment
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Re: New clutch package
Thanks guys. I'll go to my local speed shop tommorrow and look into a LUK!DonComment
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Re: New clutch package
Don:
I have a 327/365, and I installed a $90.00 Borg clutch, which is a standard replacement. It is fine, except that an occasional blast to 6500 RPM causes an overcenter condition. Overcentering is a normal phenomenon with Borg And Beck (3 finger), or diaphragm style pressure plates. I readjusted to get more free play, and thus, engagement with more pedal travel, and it is now works perfectly. The Chevrolet clutch adjustment spec was changed sometime in 1964 to address this very situation. You should add 3/4" to the free play spec to entirely eliminate the condition.
Centerforce uses flyweights attached to the pressure plate diaphragm springs, close to the throw out bearing contact area. These flyweights are used to give more clamping force at high RPM's while still using the standard soft diaphragm spring. The problem with this design, is that it actually EXCERBATES the tendency to overcenter. Centerforce is, AFAIK the only clutch manufacturer to use this design. Since high clamping force is not necessary for a street driven SB, and the above mentioned condition, I would not recommend a Centerforce unit.
I would stay with the Luk, or Borg clutch. The Borg will probably be less expensive, but will work fine. You don't need to go to a speed shop and fork over the extra cash. Go to any good automotive jobber, and order a STANDARD DUTY CLUTCH made by Luk or Borg. Adjust it per my recommendation.
JoeComment
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Re: New clutch package
The Pep Boys out here (Long Island) stocks the Luk clutch kit - plate, disc, bearing, & bushing. I've installed 3 sets on 3 different small blocks with no problem, even with that scary looking plastic bearing. They are a light clutch, so if you wanted something heavier, I can reccommend a Hayes, they tend to give me a bit of chatter though. I always resurface the flywheel & ballance the assembly.
RichComment
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