Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) which clutch?

[AMcKee]

Hey guys,

I just got done installing a tst #10 plate in my stock 97 5 spd. and it made a tremendous power difference, which ofcourse I like, but my clutch doesn't. I was able to get a couple of good pulls before my clutch started slipping . I know my clutch will hold out alittle while longer as long as i stay out of the boost, so its no emergency, but i want to get some opinions. Im looking to make around 400-500hp in time. I dont really tow heavy loads that often, usually just an open car trailer with my race car (around 6000lbs). I wondering if its possible to make that kind of power with out the expense of going to a 13 inch clutch and flywheel. Just want to pick your guys/gals brains as to what has worked and what hasn't.



Thanks,

Andy

 

[gitchesum]

Spend the extra money, get the 13".



My 97 3500 at 405 RWHP was more than the 12" SouthBend Con OFE could handle. And it was only 2WD. At that HP, you will need that larger center hub and springs.



I never towed a thing with my truck in the time that I had that clutch.

 

[tURBOdIEZEl]

i also am looking for a clutch... after my fuel was turned all the way up my clutch doesnt seem to like 5th at WOT = D

 

[RT66DOC]

Call Peter at Southbend Clutch. He'll point you in the right direction - no doubt about it.

 

[BWilson]

Definitely talk to Peter. I have the Con Fe. If I did it again, I would go with the OFe just to have a little more driveability. The Fe really grabs hold and it jerks a little when you take off, especially when towing.



Just my . 02

 

[Big John]

I have the Ofe in my '99 3500 and love it. I went from the stock clutch to one of the gorilla clutches that Joe Donally was selling a few years back. The clutch had ZERO slip and was not driveable enough for me.



Make sure that whatever you put in there has a Kevlar bushing in place of the needle bearing in the flywheel. Since you have to pull the flywheel to do this, go ahead with the 13 inch clutch and make sure the input shaft and front bearings in the transmission are in excellent shape. Those needle pilot bearings never give you the life in a transmission with miles on it as they do in a new one. They were a bad idea from the get-go.



Big John

 

[Bob4x4]

Gee,I guess I am just lucky I have always inspected or replaced my pilot bearing but have never had one fail. 425 hp. Tow drag race,sand dunes,Just keep your foot off the pedal.



Bob

 

[JGheen]

Can't remember, do you need a bigger flywheel when switching to the 13" clutch or will the stock be a sufficent enough diameter?

 

[gitchesum]

The 13" uses the stock flywheel that has been drilled and tapped to accept the larger clutch and pressure plate.

 

[Green Machine]

I run the South Bend 13" conversion clutch it an FE.

I tow with it but its not fun.

Check with Caralina clutch as well I heard they make a good product for a very fair price.