Clutch problems...smells and adjusts

elite130

Member
Dec 7, 2005
149
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16
Denver, CO
I need Stangnet's expertise on my clutch problem...

I have a 2002 GT w/ 53000 miles on it. I have been racing it all summer at the local drag strip. 2 weeks ago I got new tires, so I took the old ones and did burnouts with them. After doing a couple bunouts, immediately I had, what I thought, was clutch problems. After this weekend of racing, I have the same problems...

First thing, was a strong smell. The smell wasn't from the tires, but it was coming from under the car. It is a strong, burning metal smell. I assumed it was the clutch. I was hoping it would go away, but now when I drive the car, I can still smell it. I went racing yesterday and it smelled worse when I was racing.

The second problem is the clutch pedal feel. After the burnouts the clutch was grabbing up high. All I had to do was push the pedal down about 2" and the clutch would disengage, but it felt a little spongy. I fixed this by pulling up on the pedal and the "auto adjuster" re-adjusted itself to normal. Yesterday at the track, after a quick burnout in the box and a run down the track, the pedal became suddenly very soft. I was worried the clutch wouldn't disengage, but it did. This happened only for a few minutes and then went back to semi-normal, still a bit soft. The cluch pedal seems to be back to normal now.

What is going on? I assume I need a new clutch, am I correct in this assumpition?

Thanks for any help!!!

BTW...I'm looking at a Centerforce Dual-Friction or McLeoud (sp?) clutch. Would this be good for my car that sees the track about 10-15 times a year? Which flywheel should I get to match the clutch?
 
Your clutch is done.. I would get either of those clutches you mentioned both of them are good, also get a new stock flywheel and a new pivot ball and clutch fork and of course a new T/O bearing.

Some people may tell you you can resurface the flywheel and skip the other parts but trust me there is nothing worse than having to drop the tranny again because you were trying to save a couple of bucks. All the parts I listed is the ones that wear out often and cause trouble.
 
Sounds like your clutch has bit the dust I wish mine would. :D
The Centerforce DF clutch is a excellent choice. :nice:
I agree you should just install a new stock flywheel unless
you want to save some weight with a aluminum flywheel like my cousin.