Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) clutch life

[JRS]

120k miles ago I installed a upgraded NV4500 (fully splined 5th gear, etc. ) and a South Bend Rally Clutch. The truck only has a TST#11 plate, but it has provided me plenty of power to tow my 10-12k race car trailer all over the country in that time period. Unfortunately, a thrust washer in the "upgraded" transmission gave up the other day (the box lasted less mileage than the stock one did, but that's another story). When we pulled everthing out the clutch still looked great. yes, the roller pilot bearing was going to run low on grease soon, but the friction disc still had 40-50k on the thickness. The flywheel still had the serations from where it was turned at the last installation and the clamping surface of the pressure plate had no blueing or dishing. Even though I'm selling the truck, I installed another Rally clutch when I could have gone a cheaper route. I thought the guys at SBC deserved my business again.

 

[kenny61]

I've put 2 clutches in my truck only due to the fact I had to take the transmission out. the factory clutch had at least 50 or 70k on it still looked new. the next one was a centerforce with maybe the same amount of miles same deal flywheel looked like it had just been surfaced. It's probably due to the low end torque and the fact you don't have to slip the clutch to get moving no matter how big the load or hill is.

 

[Hammer]

I got 100k on a old school Enterprise Engine Performance double disc before the fingers on the pressure plate finally gave in and failed. When that was removed inside it was in fine shape with no warpage on the floater and the clutch disc's were in good shape. It will be sent out to be rebuilt later and kept here as a spare. We installed a Haisley Machine Street/Drag double disc and it now has 50k on it and has performed flawlessly. Much of the Haisley unit is built by SBC and I love the way it works... ... ... Andy

 

[jleons]

Hello

258,900 miles on original clutch and NV4500 5 speed, 96 Ram. No power upgrades and a daily driver. Easy on the fuel and use the best oil you can buy.

Good luck

JL

 

[Missouri Mule]

226,000 and counting on original clutch and nv4500. No HP added.