ACT Clutches; number of pads, sprung versus rigid

[nmatthis]

I have a 99 Solara V6 SE 5-spd and I'm in need of a clutch. The only engine mod is the TRD supercharger at stock boost. Stock wheels. I do have the original full TRD suspension (Bilstein struts, Eibach springs).

What is important to me is 1) will not chatter like stock Toyota clutch, 2) similar pedal force as stock, 3) similar lifespan as stock, 4) can handle the extra 50 or 60hp from the supercharger.

The original stock Toyota clutch and the second one I had put in were very chattery, even before the SC. I never understood that, since they were like that when new. So now I really would prefer not to replace it with another Toyota since both of the ones I've had were horrible.

I've been looking around and it seems like for my application, there is Centerforce and ACT. I couldn't find a clutch for a Gen 1 Solara on Clutchmasters' website. If there are other choices, let me know. Below are the clutches I'm looking at:

Centerforce CF018905 Standard Stage I clutch $300
Centerforce DF905018 Dual friction $450
ACT TY3-HDMM Street Performance (Heavy Duty Pressure Plate/Modified Street Disc) $511

I don't think I need either of the ACT Xtreme Race clutches. I know I have a supercharger, but it's stock boost and I don't race it (on or off the track). Anyone have any suggestions or experiences to report? Thanks.

I'm looking for a clutch for my 99 Solara V6 with TRD SC. I'm looking at ACT and they have several models for my car. Some have 4 and 6 pads while others have a solid disc. And others have sprung pads versus rigid pads.

How does any of this effect:

1) pedal force/effort
2) clamping force
3) clutch life
4) every day driveability (amount of chatter, ease of operation, etc)

[CamryOnBronze]

The ACT street will be your best bet for a daily driven car. It holds plenty of power/torque for any supercharged solara, engagement is a little stiffer than stock, and it stays super streetable for daily driving and traffic jams. IMO, there isn't need for anything more, unless you like killing your left leg.

Also, I merged your two threads for you.

[nmatthis]

The ACT street will be your best bet for a daily driven car. It holds plenty of power/torque for any supercharged solara, engagement is a little stiffer than stock, and it stays super streetable for daily driving and traffic jams. IMO, there isn't need for anything more, unless you like killing your left leg.

Also, I merged your two threads for you.

Should I expect any chatter on engagement from the ACT Street Performance? I've never had a performance clutch before. It looks like the ACT comes with a pressure plate but should I get a new flywheel too, considering mine is the original with 160k miles? I'm not talking about a lighter one or anything, just a new one similar to stock.

[akora12]

Any full-face clutch should be quiet, especially if the disc material is organic or kevlar. Most issues with chatter come from using ceramic, carbon and sintered iron. A puck style disc is also prone to harsher engagement and more noise. It's best to get a clutch that's rated to hold the torque that's just above your motor's output, not much over.

As for the flywheel, you should be able to get the stock one resurfaced unless it's worn past minimum thickness.

[CamryOnBronze]

No chatter for me, it pretty much engaged just like stock with a slightly firmer pedal. I went with a Fidanza Aluminum flywheel and had no complaints, but if you are looking to stick with stock, you should be able to just have it resurfaced.

[Twin Turbo]

Is the exedy clutch any good? Im in serious need of a new clutch and also, im looking to put some serious tourque thru it so does anyone know what kind of numbers i can realisticly expect to put through this unit? Or should i just bite the bullet and get some stiff as hell no fun to daily drive clutch? And if so, shat should a guy go with?

[CamryOnBronze]

Clutch manufacturers typically list the max torque the clutch can handle on their website.

[PeteGLH]

I'm in the same boat here.

Looking for a clutch that will hold up if ever I decide to go boosted. I'm pretty sure (given that Toyota selled the S/C as a bolt-on) that the stock unit will hold up pretty well on 4 psi and give a reasonable life expectancy if driven properly.

There is no way in hell that I think I will ever get to the point that the 'lara will have 400 lbs/ft of torque, so what's the use on dipping 600$ on the ACT kit? Plus, if ever I don't get boosted, I would have spent 250-300$ more for nothing.... but the clutch will be bullet proof!!

I'm under the feeling that a boosted (4-7 psi) Solara with a Centerforce Stage 1 kit for the occasional drag strip (once a year) and the occassional stop light race and daily driving would be enough (for at least 80k miles), but I may be mistaken right?

Then again, if I do get boosted and the clutch lets out, I'll be pissed for hot having taken the ACT Kit and spending 300$ for nothing on the centerforce unit + all the arm grease put into it...

What a "?%!"/$ dilema....

I'm just trying to justify the 300$ difference in both right now. I do have plans on boost, just not there yet... but that clutch definately needs a change....

Is there another option available? 300-400$ price range?