Anyway to tell what type of clutch I have?
 

Hi all,

I have bought a 92 FD3S but was told it needs a new clutch as it is slipping, while reading posts about what the best type of clutch to get I discovered that there are many different types I might need. So my question is, is there anyway of knowing what kind of clutch I have without taking it out i.e. if it is a single or a double plate, if it is a push or a pull type clutch and if it has it's own flywheel also is it one that I might just be able to buy new plates for, I am sure a read there is a hatch that you can peer in through if so an I find out what I need to know.

I did plan on getting the clutch replaced at the garage as I have never done anything like this before but as there are so many different types of clutch it might have I do not think this is feasible as I am sure they will not want to have my car sat in there workshop while I order a new clutch.

Any help would be gratefully received.

Thanks in advance,
Gavin

If you car is stock, then you have a pull type single disc clutch.

You should stick with an OEM style clutch unless you plan on upgrading. No sense spending a load of money on a strong clutch if you are just running stock power levels.

Hi Aaron thanks for the reply, I forgot to say it has been modified but not by the last owner and it is putting out approx 420 bhp at the flywheel, I was reading about the clutches and read that you can hear a metallic rattle when you press the clutch on a twin plate clutch and my clutch does make such a noise but I am not sure if this is because it is failing? The car drives fine but struggles to grip and slips when the boost comes in. I feel that my only option is to have a go at getting the clutch out myself unless there is another way to tell what type of clutch I have without taking the clutch out as I have never attempted anything like this before :(

Cheers,
Gav

Hi Aaron thanks for the reply, I forgot to say it has been modified but not by the last owner and it is putting out approx 420 bhp at the flywheel, I was reading about the clutches and read that you can hear a metallic rattle when you press the clutch on a twin plate clutch and my clutch does make such a noise but I am not sure if this is because it is failing? The car drives fine but struggles to grip and slips when the boost comes in. I feel that my only option is to have a go at getting the clutch out myself unless there is another way to tell what type of clutch I have without taking the clutch out as I have never attempted anything like this before

Cheers,
Gav

First, this is a pull type clutch so the clutch fork / throwout bearing is locked into the clutch pressure plate.

Therefore there is a window in the bellhousing that allows you to release the locking ring and detach the transmission. Fortunately for you it makes a great window to peek inside and get a look at it. With a little luck that peek will help you identify the clutch that's in there. Wipe the clutch dust off and snap a picture and post it if you're not sure what it is.

You will not want an OEM clutch at that power output. Clutch selection is important. IMHO, clutches should be enough to hold the load but getting an excessively high capacity clutch ruins the driveability.

David

Hi David, is it obvious where the window is (is it at the bottom of the bell housing?).

Thanks,
Gav

Yep. It has a big sticker labeled "PULL CLUTCH" about the size of a matchbook.

Great thanks, I will have a look and see if I can get a picture of it, might not get chance till next weekend though.
Cheers,
Gav