Clutch / Torque Converter: 11" clutch

[kelmbaker]

I have a high quality clutch kit for a '72 Jeep CJ 5. I know the throwout bearing and pilot shaft bushing are not compatible with Stude V8's (I think). But I have installed 10.5" clutch's with no problems before, but never an 11" clutch. I will be surfacing the flywheel.

Is there an issue with an 11" clutch on a Studebaker V8 flywheel? Opinions are varied. Any information is welcome.

Progress continues on the Power Hawk and new surprises still continue to crop up. But I smell the finish line. I will send in pics when finished. My shop is run by a set of brothers who range from 21 to 30. These guys are hard core Rock-a-Billies. Shop rule is no Chevy engines in non-Chevy's. The are also hard core AMC guys. These guys work on their own schedule though. Can be frustrating.

As usual, thank you,

Kelly

[bezhawk]

11" will not fit a car flywheel. It will overlap the bolt holes for the pressure plate.

[BobPalma]

What Brad said, Kelly, to answer your PM at the same time. BP

[SN-60]

To: bezhawk------Unless it's a 56J!!!!

[StudeRich]

I am not saying it cannot be done, however all I can tell you is I do not believe that an 11 inch clutch was ever an option on Cars, they were however on Trucks, using a different flywheel.
My '62 Transtar 1 Ton Duelly (7E13-131) was extra special ordered with a 12 in clutch on the flywheel that is used for the optional 11 inch on V-8 Trucks, it is very close to the edge of the flywheel.

My opinion is why not use the correct 10 1/2 inch 12 Spring H.D. Avanti Pressure Plate as they can be rebuilt to any PSI required.
The stock Avanti Pressure Plate Assy. was used on 426 Hemi Dodges, 409 Chevies and 406 Fords with T-10 4 Speeds.

You will have to be careful that the Jeep Clutch Disc. has the same number of splines as Stude. it is not likely.

I would find a more dependable, more experienced, and a bit older Mechanic.

[kelmbaker]

truck flywheel

I have a truck flywheel here in the bone pile. To return this clutch would be a shame. I still need the flywheel turned, so which one gets turned, who cares?

I am proud of the shop I have found (Welfare Motors in Tucson). they harken back to the original hot rod shops and don't look anything like Bord Cottington's shop or any number of production shops as seen on TV. They are sincere, and they mean it when they like independants. This isn't a show.

They will finish a car to any degree you want , which is a breath of fresh air. Most won't touch your car "unless we do it right" whatever that means. I've been laid up for the last year had had to find someone to do wrenching for me. I just like this shop. Oh to be 25 again with thoughts of beer, women and fast cars, not in that order.

[kelmbaker]

Cancelled the Jeep clutch and ordered the 10.5. Seems smarter than using the old truck unit. The splines are the same, same as old Chevy for that matter (10 spline), plus I am using a Chevy Camaro T-5 unit...... I was trying to avoid the diapham clutch. I think I have it now. Thank you for your comment. I will try to support the kids at this shop and hope to not get burned. Everyone started somewhere. I am trying to talk them into the superiority of Studebaker, but they are AMC guys, seems to be an old story.

[StudeRich]

Good, it sounds like you are on the right track.
When extolling the virtures of Studebakers, be sure to mention the GREAT Parts availability!

AMC Parts are next to impossible to find because of low Factory inventory, Chrysler buyout and scrappage, and parts constantly changing.

[64Avanti]

I would find a more dependable, more experienced, and a bit older Mechanic.

I wouldn't knock a mechanic because of his age. I rebuilt my first Studebaker V8 when I was 15 and by the time I was 22 had rebuilt at least 12 engines. Experience is important but a good mechanic has to have a real feel for mechanical things. Age and experience will never make up for a lack of mechanical aptitude.

[SN-60]

To: 64 avanti,------I must say that was 'well said'!

[studebakerkid]

You could step machine that flywheel. I step machined the flywheel in my 65 .020 and it makes a big difference having the surface that the diaphgram bolt to just that much lower.