67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

[Gary S.]

I want to replace the clutch disk and pressure plate in my 67 427/390 car. I have replaced many but usually used a rebuilt NAPA product. However, I have a special car and want it to feel and work like original. Can anyone recommend a particular brand or type of product. I see Long Island has OEM stuff advertised (clutch $80, PP $125). Or do I go direct to GM and order? Any experiences or recommendations appreciated. Thanks, Gary

[Scott Marzahl]

Re: 67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

I would highly recommend a Centerforce pressure plate and disk. It will feel like stock and they make a very nice product. I have used several in both small and big block applications with great satisfaction.

[Joe L.]

Re: 67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

Gary-----

1967 Corvettes with manual transmission and 427 engines (except L-88) used an 11" clutch. The original clutch pressure plate and cover assembly, GM #3884598, is still available from GM. The current GM list price of this part is $187.96, but they can be obtained for less from competitive dealers.

The original friction disc was GM #3908960. This part, being of asbestos material, has been discontinued for several years now. It is replaced by GM #10148045, which uses a non-asbestos friction material.It currently GM lists for $144.46, but can also be purchased for less.

Long Island's prices don't sound bad if they're GM pieces. However, I strongly suspect that they're the Luk or Sachs aftermarket parts that are currently being sold and implied as being the "same as OEM" or "manufactured by the current supplier of clutches to GM". Bear in mind that "aftermarket" and "OEM" parts, even if they're made by the same manufacturer, are very often different. Perhaps not in this case, but, since the genuine GM parts are available, I'd go that route.

And I should also add that Luk and Sachs do make excellent clutches and both do manufacture OEM clutches for GM and others. But, they also have an "aftermarket" parts line as many OEM manufacturers do.

[Brandon K.]

Re: 67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

Which centerforce products did you use (ie Centerforce II, dual friction)? Also, how was the pedal pressure compared to stock on the midyears?

Thanks, Brandon

[Scott Marzahl]

Re: 67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

Centerforce II and the pedal pressure isn't any more than a stock clutch.

[Jimmy G.]

Re: 67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

Gary, Go to a good speed shop and buy a good name brand street / strip cluth package with disc, plate, and bearing Hayes, Zoom, Centerforce, Many others also. About $160 retail. If possible do not get the extended finger plate as I have had some trouble with them. These claim lighter pressure with the same force but it is not needed in a street car. Make sure to resurfae and balance flywheel. My engine builder balances clutch and crank combo together. Not necessary but good to do if you can. Do this and forget about clutch problems, unless you dump at redline with 4.56 gears. Can you say "breaking parts" I speak from experience. Call me about the other issue you e-mailed me on the other day as I deleted it before I got a chance to answer.

[Bill Davis]

Re: 67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

I have replaced many clutch assemblies in Corvettes and other hiperf vehicles.I suggest that you use a Centerforce II for street only use. If you have any desire for high RPM engagement, the Dual Friction is the only way to go! At the same time you should use a Delco CT24AG t/o bearing and a GM #14061685 pilot bearing (not a bronze bushing). Have the flywheel resurfaced and rebalanced. Also replace the flywheel and clutch bolts and washers with new GM parts. You will enjoy the feel and performance!!

[John H.]

Re: 67 Clutch/Press Plate Replacement

I've used the CenterForce II packages (clutch, disc, and throwout bearing) on four cars in the last six years, and they're a great setup - smooth, low pedal effort, and no slip even under dragstrip conditions. Have not tried the dual-friction setup - looks a little extreme for the street. Jeg's carries CenterForce products.

John