Clutch Recommendation

[65TripleBlack]

1965 327/365, slightly modified and runs very strong. Run to redline and beyond occasionally. Need best recommendation for standard duty clutch, but will install HD pressure lpate if necessary. Currently installed, BORG, standard duty kit. Clutch currently overcenters with speedshift above 5000RPM.

 

[cfalson]

Replacement Clutch

I put in a Centerline and could not be happier, nice pedal feel, never a problem on a mild 327/350.

 

[JohnZ]

I've had good luck with many LuK and Centerforce II 10.5" clutches (bent-finger diaphragm, same as the original). If yours has a Borg & Beck 3-finger coil-spring pressure plate, someone changed it - all Corvettes after 1962 had diaphragm clutches.

 

[65TripleBlack]

I've had good luck with many LuK and Centerforce II 10.5" clutches (bent-finger diaphragm, same as the original). If yours has a Borg & Beck 3-finger coil-spring pressure plate, someone changed it - all Corvettes after 1962 had diaphragm clutches.

John,

My clutch is a diaphragm type, not a Borg-and-Beck type. Manufacturer is Borg. Sorry for the confusion.
I've had many replies, and conflicting opinions as to course of action. I am thinking about changing linkage to fast action, and further increasing freeplay (it is now set to recommended 1+ inches as per shop manual and increased dimension per update).
I'm not convinced that going to a HD pressure plate will prevent the overcentering, because the standard duty unit holds tight once engaged. Hard to believe that I should have to live with this condition.
What is your feeling about this?

Joe

 

[JohnZ]

I've always used either LuK or Centerforce II bent-finger diaphragm clutches (with the correct upper and lower pushrods and throwout bearing, fork, and ball stud) and have never experienced the "over-centering" issue you describe. Corvette clutch linkage is EXTREMELY sensitive to having EXACTLY the correct components in order to have sufficient adjustment to maintain proper pedal free play; '63-'65 upper and lower pushrods are significantly different dimensionally than the '66-'67 pair, and Corvettes use a 1-1/4" throwout bearing, NOT the 1-3/4" bearing used in passenger cars and trucks.

 

[65TripleBlack]

John:

All linkage components are correct, as well as the TO bearing (short).
Clutch action is fine, with smooth engagement/disengagement. Maybe the overcentering is more pronounced now because the clutch is still new. As it wears in , the phenomenon might not be as pronounced. I'll probably put a block under the pedal, and/or practice tapping the pedal instead of pushing all the way to the floorboards.

Joe