[DeTomaso] Clutch?

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 3/7/12 8 11 53, adin at frontier.net writes:


> Unexpected expense of a new clutch.
> 
> What is available?  From where?
> 
> Suggestions?
> 
> Thanks!
> 

Some people like the Centerforce clutch.   I don't, for two reasons:

1)   They use a unique bolt pattern for their pressure plate which requires 
redrilling your flywheel ($$$) or buying one of their custom flywheels to 
match ($$$$$).   I've seen flywheels drilled incorrectly so that the clutch 
then caused big vibration problems.

2)   The Centerforce gimmick is weights on the fingers.   Sometimes those 
weights can stick, causing an imbalance.   They don't really accomplish 
anything productive anyway

(Full confession--I have a Centerforce clutch in my 427 Cobra and it hasn't 
given me any problems).

Anyway, when it comes to Pantera clutches, I vastly prefer McLeod units.   
They engineer clutches specifically for the Pantera in a variety of flavors, 
from stock replacement to super-whippy-dippy twin-disc lightweight racing 
clutches.   For street and track use I prefer their diaphragm clutch, which 
has everything a Centerforce has except for the BS weights, and will bolt 
right to your existing flywheel.

Dave--you said you had a 'clutch failure'.   Was it the entire unit, or 
just the disc?   Because if your pressure plate is still okay, there's nothing 
preventing you from just purchasing a replacement disc.   McLeod will sell 
you one, Centerforce won't.

Dennis Quella is the main Pantera McLeod clutch dealer--give him a call.

Mike