283 Hi Po Clutch

[Jack A.]

I have another question I know you guys will know. I am rebuilding a 61 315HP motor, Does it have a different Clutch/Pressure plate combo than the lower HP rated motors? I see kits advertised and want to make sure they are the right one.

[Duke W.]

Re: 283 Hi Po Clutch

AFAIK there is only one OE replacement 10.5" diaphragm clutch kit available, and it's sold under several brands including Sachs and Borg-Warner. Though your car originally did not have a diaphragm type clutch (first OE of this type was '63), it is definitely the way to go.

Clutches are rated for maximum torque input and maximum revs, so a 283 is not going to push the torque capacity.

Duke

[Joe L.]

Re: 283 Hi Po Clutch

I have another question I know you guys will know. I am rebuilding a 61 315HP motor, Does it have a different Clutch/Pressure plate combo than the lower HP rated motors? I see kits advertised and want to make sure they are the right one.

Jack-----


1961 Corvettes with 315 hp engine used the same clutch as all other 1961 Corvettes and earlier Corvettes, as well.

pressure plate with cover-----GM #3745946

friction disc (10")-------------GM #3754612

Like all C1 Corvettes, this was a Borg & Beck (i.e. "3 finger"or lever) type clutch. Very unlikely to find the above NOS.

[Jim L.]

Re: 283 Hi Po Clutch

Borg and Beck style pressure plates are available from Summit under both the RAM and Hays brand names:

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1∂=RAM%2D423&N=700+42948 59738+115&autoview=sku

and

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1∂=HAY%2D30%2D012&N=700+ 4294859738+115&autoview=sku

Jim

[John N.]

Re: 283 Hi Po Clutch

I have been using the RAM 403 which is 2800# which is more than adequate for street and some fun. Summit does not list it but does carry or will get it. Do not buy any pressure plate with the counter weight assist as it may slow shifts. I have found that the RAM clutch discs have race type springs in them and are rough on engagement. I use a HAYS 40-111 clutch disc. Be sure to use the short type throw out bearing. If Jim or others have a favorite bearing with part #, please let me know.
Regards

[Jack A.]

Re: 283 Hi Po Clutch

Hi Guys,

Thanks for all the great tips. I saw something on E Bay (I know) It was a clutch kit that is supposed to fit my car. It is an AC Delco part# 381127 from someone called the "partslady" for a price of $104.00. Does that sound like the original parts #? Right number of digits. Includes clutch/pressureplate/throught out bearring.

Thanks,

Jack

[Joe L.]

Re: 283 Hi Po Clutch

Hi Guys,

Thanks for all the great tips. I saw something on E Bay (I know) It was a clutch kit that is supposed to fit my car. It is an AC Delco part# 381127 from someone called the "partslady" for a price of $104.00. Does that sound like the original parts #? Right number of digits. Includes clutch/pressureplate/throught out bearring.

Thanks,

Jack

Jack-----


No, the Delco part is, I believe, a Delco part number of 381-127; that number is not a GM "long number". This is a current manufacture clutch kit which is, I believe, manufactured by LUK or Sachs for AC-Delco. I think it's a diaphragm-type clutch. I do not know if it's the correct one for your application.

[Jimmy G.]

Re: 283 Hi Po Clutch

Centerforce after market STRONGLY recommended!!!!