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Solving Clutch Woes

Posted August 11 2008 08:30 AM by SMART67 
Filed under: Miscellaneous

Clutch improvements you cannot see, but can feel when it's time to twist the key.


Everything you need for smoother clutch operation.
Clutches must have hospital clean friction surfaces.
Clutch pilot bearings call for way more thought than they get.

Thank goodness for clutch operation improvements that have made classic Mustangs easier to drive and enjoy.  There are at least two types of hydraulic clutch conversion kits out there from JMC Motorsports and Wilwood.  Cable clutch kits from D.B. Performance Engineering, Ron Morris Performance, and Modern Driveline have also made clutch operation much easier, thank you very much.

But what if you're restoring a classic Mustang and want to stick with factory original components where you open the hood and cannot see the difference?  This is where stealthy restomod improvements you cannot see, but can feel, come into play. Centerforce makes some of the best darned clutches in the world for classic Mustangs. These Dual-Friction, diaphragm style clutches work like a champ and they reduce pedal effort by a huge margin compared to Borg & Beck and Long style three-finger clutches. Older three-finger clutches yield high pedal effort and exceptional holding power.  If you like a heavy clutch pedal, these power monger clutches are for you.  

The Centerforce design yields mild diaphragm style pedal effort and a unique centrifugal flyweight design that increases holding power as engine rpm increases.  This means reduced pedal effort and high holding power.

When you use the Centerforce Dual-Friction clutch, you can use your Mustang's original linear bellcrank equalizer bar set-up. Freshen up your clutch activation system with a new equalizer bar, brackets, bushings, and felts.  Check the helper spring underdash and equalizer bar return spring while you're in there.  There's nothing wrong with Ford's original equalizer bar system if you have a reduced pedal effort clutch inside the bellhousing.

One more thing - when you order a clutch pilot bearing, spend money on a high-quality needle bearing type for better performance.

For more information, contact Centerforce at www.centerforce.com.  For clutch linkage information, go to www.npd-link.com.  

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