clutch opinions???????
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,062
Likes: 104
From: Southeast, Tennessee
St. Jude Donor '09 thru '26
clutch opinions???????
i realize that this will probably open up a firestorm of opinion, but here's the situation: auto to manual conversion on a 78, upgrading rear from standard auto (305 i believe to 336 (or there about. the stock 4 speed rear gearing for 78 w/ac). the car will not ever see a track and will not be driven any harder than you would normally drive a corvette (the engine build is a 383 stroker with a mild cam and 9.5:1 compression making about 350hp). using a 3899621 bellhousing so an 11" clutch is possible.
here's the question: i need suggestions for the new clutch to be installed. i currently also own an 04 CE 6spd vert, so i would like to have something similar in feel if possible. additionally i do not want to skimp on the clutch, but i have no intention of giving up my first born grandchild either. i am open to suggestions both as what to consider and i guess more importantly, what not to consider based upon your experiences.
thank you for your help.
steve
here's the question: i need suggestions for the new clutch to be installed. i currently also own an 04 CE 6spd vert, so i would like to have something similar in feel if possible. additionally i do not want to skimp on the clutch, but i have no intention of giving up my first born grandchild either. i am open to suggestions both as what to consider and i guess more importantly, what not to consider based upon your experiences.
thank you for your help.
steve
Race Director
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 10,332
Likes: 63
From: PARADISE
St. Jude Donor '09-'11-'12-'13-'14
LUK clutches are what's used in the later Vettes. They seem to have a good reputation. With the HP your going to have, a stock type replacement clutch is more than adequate.
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 114
Likes: 1
From: Bradenton, FL
Tried a SPEC Stage 1 Clutch and had a lot of chatter even after the 600 miles they said to drive first. I got tired of it and installed a RAM Muscle Car clutch set from Summit. It works perfectly!!! It was an expensive lesson 
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,062
Likes: 104
From: Southeast, Tennessee
St. Jude Donor '09 thru '26
thanks. how stiff was the clutch action on the RAM setup? i'm not as young as i used to be and would like something similar in pressure to the C5 i have. i was looking at that one before i posted the question.
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 114
Likes: 1
From: Bradenton, FL
The clutch action is smooth and not stiff at all. I did do a lot of research on clutch geometry on this forum and made sure mine was correct. I did utilize an adjustable pivot ball to get dialed in. It was easy. I spent more time doing the research, but it is now a pleasure to drive.
