I have been thinking about replacing the clutch in my 83. I am sure the one that is on it is original, and the car is almost to 85k miles. But while shopping around I cant decide which "stage" I need. The car is mostly stock, no turbo, stock wheels, stock axle, etc... The problem comes from the fact that I like to do full throttle starts from every stop light, not burnouts, but just hard driving. Would it be worth my while to get a stage 2 or 3 clutch? Would they last longer and/or provide more feedback to the pedal?

Also, I am sure it has been done by someone on the forum, how hard are clutches to change? I have only done it once before and it was on a dodge pick-up. I dont recall it being all that difficult, but you never know with these cars.

Thanks in advance

 

The stock clutch is plenty for a stock car. Even a moderately modded engine does not need any heavier duty clutch. As you go to a heavier duty clutch, the streetability is reduced by the fact that the clutch is designed to grab faster, which means it's a little harder to take off without having it jerky feeling.
As far as needing to be changed just because it has reached a certain mileage, there is no set time/miles for a clutch to wear out. It all depends on how it has been used. One person may get over 200K from an original clutch, while another may only get 20K.
It is not difficult to change, if you have access to the proper tools. Clutch alignment tool is required (for all clutches), and changing the pilot bearing is reccomended, which also requires special tools.
A person average auto skills can usually manage the job fairly well.

 

what he said ^^^^^^pilot bearing is considered the most difficult aspect of the clutch job and should be "required" instead of " recommended ". The biggest timesaver will be the proper tools, ( pilot bearing removal tool ).

 

Seldawg, I couldnt help but notice that you are in Michigan as well. If you know what you are doing, and would be willing to help, I'll buy the beer. One of my big problems is that I live in an apartment, they arent too happy when you tear your car apart in the parking lot.

 

If you want more clutch, step up a stage on the pp and run the stock disc. You will have to break your standing start habit until the new clutch is broken in.