The clutch and plate is a centerforce and is only abt 6 months old, probably 5000 miles. It did not start over a long period but I'm not sure it was all there in one day. I haven't noticed a spongy clutch or a change in the feel of the pedal when it warms up, but I will pay attention to that. Its getting so bad now that I have to jerk it in gear when it is hot. As far as power: fresh engine, #10 plate, 16mm housing, 370 injectors, catless exhaust with straight muffler, piers govenor springs, afc springs, valve springs, I had the thing running for two days and broke the main shaft in two, after I put the new shaft in it was ok for about 3 months then this started... ... maybe a broken pressure plate... I just can't figure out how the heat comes into play.