Custom cars are all about precision, power, and panache. However, when you’re moving outside standard production vehicle specs, some components tend to take a real beating. For example, the clutch in your vehicle can see a lot of wear and tear, and you should know what types of clutch issues are common in custom builds.
Slipping Clutch: The Silent Performance Killer
One of the most common problems in high-performance and custom builds is clutch slip. This type of issue occurs when the clutch disc doesn’t engage completely, which results in a loss of power and acceleration. Not sure if you’re slipping? You’ll probably notice a distinct burning smell, as well as a change in engine speed even though your vehicle isn’t picking up speed.
There are a couple of ways to avoid this issue. Make sure you install a clutch designed to handle high-powered engines. This is particularly important if you’ve made changes to increase horsepower, added turbos, etc. Racing clutches and heavy-duty clutches can handle the heat, as well as the pressure, keeping your vehicle moving just as it should.
Premature Wear: When Customization Takes a Toll
If you’ve made modifications to your vehicle, then you’re probably putting additional strain on that clutch. Custom modifications add up to premature clutch failure and it can be caused by anything, from aggressive driving to making changes under the hood. Simply put, the clutch in a production vehicle isn’t engineered to handle the kind of stress that your high-performance engine will put it under.
To avoid that premature wear and tear, it’s important that you maintain your clutch and your vehicle properly. Check it throughout the year for wear (note that there’s always going to be at least some, even under ideal driving conditions). Your clutch will ultimately fail, that’s simply the nature of the part, even if you use a performance-grade clutch, rather than the same thing that’s in the factory vehicle. However, it will last longer and give you more service life. Because you know it’s going to happen at some point, you won’t have to deal with a failure that comes at a bad time, like the night before a big race.
Clutch Chatter: A Sign of Improper Installation
Clutch chatter is another problem that custom car owners often must deal with. This problem shows itself as a series of vibrations while you’re trying to shift. It’s a very simple problem with a very simple cause – it’s usually the indication of an installation problem, a clutch/flywheel mismatch, or both.
The key to avoiding this problem is to purchase a clutch kit designed to work with the stock or replacement flywheel and have the assembly installed properly. If you’re not adept at dealing with a clutch job, consider hiring a professional to do it for you. Even if you are comfortable tackling the work on your own, be sure to select a clutch designed to combat clutch chatter.
Overheating: The Enemy of Performance
Overheating is a very big problem in any custom build and is worse for racing vehicles. When a clutch becomes overheated, two things happen. Firstly, it will slip, as just mentioned. Secondly, the friction material will likely fail more quickly, leading to a need for repairs or a replacement. Overheating can occur in any vehicle, but your chances will be greater in stop-and-go driving or in situations where you’re accelerating and braking hard.
A clutch can overheat relatively easily, but using a high-performance clutch that uses the right materials can reduce the suffering and last longer even with high temperatures. This applies to twin-plate and triple plates as well. Other than that, do not put your foot on the pedal way before you need to. It’s perfectly normal when you need to dump the clutch as soon as you release it and apply gas. For those who consistently push their car hard, it’s best to go with a clutch made for high heat.
Stiff Clutch Pedal: When Comfort Meets Performance
An extremely stiff clutch causes an inconvenience and points to an issue that is much worse. Most greatly designed clutches, especially those for high performance and specific applications, are a bit on the stiff side. There are some that are stiffer than most custom clutches. A clutch pedal that is too stiff is a leading indicator of a hydraulic problem or issues with the clutch assembly itself.
If the pedal is too stiff, check the hydraulic-fluid level and the master and slave cylinders. A simple adjustment or even bleeding may be all that’s needed. A clutch kit designed for your application will give you the best results over just throwing anything in your custom ride.
Clutch Drag: Impeding Smooth Shifts
One of the most common complaints among custom car owners is the problem of the clutch sticking and refusing to engage fully. The problem can also lead to the gearbox being damaged, not to mention causing shifting issues. Typically, the clutch sticking is not caused by the disc itself but is commonly a result of the clutch linkage being misaligned.
To avoid clutch drag, be sure to check and adjust the pedal travel often to make sure it’s disengaging the clutch enough. Regular pedal checks are your best bet in making sure your car is shifting smoothly, and your trans isn’t eating itself alive.
Summary: Boosting Performance with a Well-Maintained Clutch
Custom vehicles need custom parts, and the clutch is no different. From overheating and clutch drag to knowing how to select the right clutch for the setup, you can make your ride shift smoothly. Don’t forget that there’s no substitute for a properly working clutch, and to experience your custom car to its full potential, a properly maintained and well-chosen clutch is necessary.
