Heavy Duty Clutch / PP selection for 200HP 1.5 Turbodiesel

[Jetmugg]

All righty then - I just smoked the clutch that was in my land-speed racing truck.  It held up fine before recent upgrades to the power. 

My best estimate is that we are around 200HP right now.  I'm still using a "small spline" 020 4-speed trans.

Looking for clutch/pressure plate suggestions that can handle the power level we are at right now, with the potential to handle more (maybe on the high side of 250 HP).

All serious suggestions are welcome.  I would prefer not to spend $1K on a clutch and pressure plate for this truck.

Meanwhile, please enjoy these videos of the Rampage doing it's thing.

New record pass:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2Hn--X847Q

View out the back window on a subsequent pass, complete with slipping clutch...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAXMhwud9us

[RabbitJockey]

do you know if you have a single or dual pin flywheel?  dual pin seems to be cheaper with more clamping force

clutchnet seems to have really really good stuff, just expect a month lead time on what you order, heres a link to their kits.

http://clutchnet.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.browse&category_id=4351&Itemid=140

[RabbitJockey]

also, they have the torque values there to show what each kit can hold.

[burn_your_money]

Can you convert to 02A?

[Jetmugg]

Yes, I could convert to 02A.  I'm still brainstorming and figuring out the technical possibilities.

I'm actually thinking of switching to a 6-speed 02M (DRW) code transaxle, with associated upgrades to the clutch, flywheel, and pressure plate.

If possible, I want to get all the technical details worked out in my head for the current state, as well as for future planning with more power and faster speeds.

Steve.

[vanbcguy]

Would be worth knocking on the door (figuratively) of South Bend and seeing if they want to be a sponsor, given you have a few records under your belt now.  They have lots of experience with VW clutches.

[RabbitJockey]

yeah southbend seems to be the go to clutch over at tdi club(where everyone builds the same car) so it is likely that they'd love to have their name on your truck.

[theman53]

I have southbend on my MKIV and it is rated 100ft/lbs over what my car should make and it has slipped since the first 500 miles. They will do nothing, except offer to test it for free if I buy another. Did an internet search and many have had the same issue with it slipping. Moral is stay away from the clones at TDI club's advice on clutches.

I have a clutchnet on the MKII and it is a 6 puck sprung hub with the red pp in the 210mm size. The diaphragm spring broke a year out of warranty and I sent it back to them and they fixed it for free. Even with the broken spring it held fine, it just wouldn't release. I have never slipped the clutchnet and it was approx. 400.00 when I bought it probably 6 years ago. If it were me I would buy another clutchnet any day. No clue what the MKII puts out but it holds every bit of it. I think George/Horhay gave me a fuzz off because I told him I am on a forum and if it works guys may buy off you. He just may sponsor you as well, never hurts to ask.

02M/A/J will be over 600.00 just for the clutch kit and pressure plate, then you have to figure out the axles and put it in. If it were me and money was not an issue I would definitely do this. It would be the last couple MPH if needed, but you haven't needed so...

[vanbcguy]

Well my South Bend works fantastically and doesn't slip. I've also seen them help folks out more than a few times. Lots and lots of the bigger power cars are running their clutches without issue. Not sure what's wrong with yours but your experience doesn't match most others.

[theman53]

I don't think most on tdi club would admit it if they had issues. I should have searched online first but I did not. I found at least a page of people who have the exact experience I did. I would not be so critical of them if I  didn't have a string of emails from them and no help. Not all mfg will be 100% all of the time but most will help if need be especially in the warranty period. That is my main issue with them. I didn't say that I moderate a diesel forum but I don't think I should have to. I prefer to use companies that work for me without any prodding. Your results may vary...

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Jetmugg]

I already "have" the 02M, 4 puck clutch, and Sachs 618PP, but they are in Sweden.  Those parts were originally intended for another engine combination with the 02M, but that isn't going to work out due to the fact that the alloy VW used for the 02M case is not weldable.

I'm trying to figure out if that combination of parts will work in my Rampage.  The parts are already paid for.  I'm not made of money, but I'm willing to spend money wisely. 

I think I'm just going to have to buck up, pay the shipping from Sweden, get the parts here, and have a go at making everything fit and work.

Yes, I'll have to work out the axle shafts and shifter, but that is stuff I'm prepared to do for a custom application.

Steve.

[theman53]

4 puck is fine but even for racing I think it should be sprung and not solid. Your trans will thank you.

[Jetmugg]

Yes - Bonneville will be comparatively "easy" on the clutch due to tire slip against the salt.  Ohio is more like a drag strip in terms of traction.

Steve.

[745 turbogreasel]

I personally have installed 4  South Bend clutches  that all still work flawless, two  in trucks that run well over GVW on steep  terrain.  One broke off a 6 speed NV5600 and a Dana 70.
I'll be getting one for my truck when I can afford it/the old one  slips too much.
I did have one issue, they sent the wrong   non-DMF flywheel, had another in 2 days.