Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Hydraulic upgrade

[SHobbs]

Looks like the transmission will be pulled due to some kind of failure, possibly the slave cylinder. Since it will be pulled I am having the Con Ofe from Southbend put in. I am considering also upgrading the hydraulic system as well. What are the benefits of this upgrade over the stock system? I know the answer should be obvious but, from those that have done it what benefits have you seen? Performance, longevity and was it worth it?

 

[rkressg]

The Slave Cylinder is easy to change, and does not require the change of the transmission.

Peter at SBC sells an upgraded 2-part Clutch Master/Slave combo that is heavier duty.

I would start there, they (the slave) will fail and you will not be able to get it out of gear.

One other thing you can check, remove the slave cylinder and start the truck.
NOTE: You will need to jumper the clutch startup switch, do not step on the clutch when the slave cylinder is out of the truck, you will shoot brake fluid everywhere and probably loose the ram out of the slave cylinder!

With the engine running, you can take a screw driver and gently insert it into the the location of where the slave cylinder was. Place it against the back of the clutch release fork. DO NOT stick your fingers in there!
If you feel excessive jerking, then you might have damage to the clutch/pressure plate/release fork/input shaft.

If you are going to change the clutch, I would just upgrade to an FE. It drives almost the same as stock. I personally do not think it is worth only going with the OFE (you will understand if you pull the transmission).

-Rich

 

[DPrew]

I just upgraded to the 450 HP South Bend Clutch and now the worn clutch cylinder is struggling to handle to extra pressure. I'm having the South Bend clutch cylinder kit installed.

 

[SHobbs]

Rich,



You got me curious now. I was thinking about the MU 13-1. 25 Con OFE 450h. p. 1000 ft/lbs. due to future power upgrades. I do plan on giving Southbend a call to see what they recommend though.

 

[SHobbs]

Replaced the clutch master and slave cylinder, still having problems. I think the pressure plate is going as well as the throw out bearing, guess after 200k miles it's done. Truck is going in Mon. to have a Southbend installed. Called Southbend yesterday and they reccomended the 13-1. 25 Con OFE due to the future upgrades that I am planning, plus with the weight of my 5er I do not want to go through this ordeal again. Do it once, do it right and forget about it. I asked if the stock hydraulic system would be ok with this clutch and they assured me it would be ok. I am also having the rear main seal changed out as well, the current one appears to be leaking a little, might as well have it done while the transmission is out.