[GB]

Have a few questions about a replacement clutch for my cobra. I am currently running a pretty much stock engine with a T-5. I plan on future upgrades to the engine to about a maximum of 350 HP/FT-LBS of torque. I would like to keep pedal effort along the stock clutch feel, or lighter if that is possible. I have used the search function of the site and it seems that Centerforce clutches are a good combination of performance and pedal effort. Anyone have experience with this set-up?

A follow on question, if I do go with a Centerforce set-up will this be a direct replacement for a stock unit or will modifications be needed on my car FFR#1289? Can this set-up be installed without removing the engine?

Thanks for your help.
GB

 

[Wade Chamberlain]

GB - with your older chassis, you can drop the trans easily from below, then remove the bellhousing and replace the clutch from the underside. Mike Forte has a nice dual friction setup that he sells for around $280 that will bolt right in, and hold your 350 ft/lb all day long.

 

[Tom Mauldin]

I ran a centerforce clutch on a Mustang many years ago and it was a pain in the leg. I have had very good luck with the King Cobra clutch from Ford Motorsport. The pedal effort is not very much over stock and it holds. I used this with my last motor (351w w/vortech) and on my other motor(408w w/vortech) and was very happy with it. Plus it is a whole lot cheaper than a centerforce. My last car was 1461 and I would pull the trans out the top of the tunnel. To me it was easier than trying to clear the crossmember

 

[Steve]

I have the stock clutch - brand new replacement and it only cost me around $100.00 from D&D. I've compared the pedal to the Heavy Duty clutch kit and it's much easier / lighter to actuate. If the Cobra kit is supposed to feel like stock, go with that.

My motor is making somewhere around 300hp and I have a stock 1987 T5, which I don't want to break. The stock clutch is FINE for me. It doesn't slip, it's easy to use, and it's very smooth.

I think if I ever need more grip, I'll go with the King Cobra kit, but not until I upgrade the T5 to the Z spec with stronger gears. I would rather have the clutch slip than bust the trans.

 

[GB]

Gentlemen,
Thanks for your help, I now have a more focused approach to my replacement clutch.

GB

 

[Mike Forte]

Hi GB,
I have the clutch Wade was speaking of and the Ford Racing Cobra clutch kit too. All of the related parts I have too, flywheel (alum, cast or steel), pilot, fork, cable, bellhousing, bolts & dowels, T-5Z, Tremecs etc.
Mike Forte
Forte's Parts Connection
376 R Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA 01803
781-273-9900