Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Clutch Disc Question

[MAYoung]

The new clutch disc that came with the kit that I purchased from Standard Transmission and Gear has five damper springs. The old disc with 190k miles has 10 damper springs (6 in an outer ring, 4 in an inner ring).



The 1998 Dodge Service Manual indicates that all diesels have a disc with only 5 springs.



Question: What will performance and life expectancy be like for the disc with fewer damper springs?



Thanks in advance.



M. Young

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

The number and placement of the damper springs will affect noise, vibration, and torque capacity before the springs bottom out. Stiffness and amount of compressibility before coil bind are also important. The stock disk was designed for low noise and vibration with stock power. Many aftermarket disks are intended for engines with added power. The more you slip a clutch, the faster the disk friction material wears. Lugging the engine, extreme applications of power, and heavy use of an exhaust brake are hard on the springs and stop pins. With “moderate” use, the clutch can last a long time, but it is still a “wear item” and subject to replacement. Be sure you change the pilot bearing and throw out bearing too, as they wear out. The pilot bearing is susceptible to failure from holding the clutch pedal down at stoplights.