Hi everyone,

I've got an '87 STX 4x4 2.9 Ranger with a 5-speed and I'm looking for a new clutch to replace the weak OEM version. I can get a good deal on a "Centerforce 2" disc and pressure plate, but I don't know much about them. Does anyone know anything about Centerforce 2 clutches and/or something else that would be an improvement over the OEM Ford clutch?

Also, I just want to say that this forum is great! I wish I had known about it a long time ago. Thanks in advance for any input you can give me concerning the clutch.

Jeff

 

Jeff,

The brand you mention is indeed a reputable company making a variety of quality clutches and parts. The chances are slim that you would be dissatisfied with the physical product.

As long as you know to expect what you get.

Let me leave you with a thought:
If the pressure required to press the clutch in my daily driver raised significantly, I would think the clutch stunk regardless of whether it could hookup 1200 hp without slipping when I dump the peddle - or not.

~Most~ "significantly stronger" clutches require stronger actuators. Whether they are human legs, or hydraulics.

HTH,
Mike.

 

Thanks for the reply Mike. I came across some info that said the Centerforce clutches are made to be stronger without increasing the pressure needed to disengage the clutch (by using their special design). I imagine that it's possible. All I know is that I don't want to put a stock clutch in my truck again (they're too weak). I've changed clutches in 2wd rangers a few times and it's a breeze. But since I bought this 4x4 I'm really dreading to change the clutch, as it looks like it's going to be much more of a pain.

I get the impression that Ford may have purposely made these clutches this way (weak). Perhaps to put less strain on the drive train?

Jeff

 

Thanks for the reply Mike. I came across some info that said the Centerforce clutches are made to be stronger without increasing the pressure needed to disengage the clutch (by using their special design). I imagine that it's possible.


Someone out there correct me if I'm wrong here, but in order for them to do that they must manipulate the material the clutch disc is made of. This is NOT a bad thing, but it is the difference between a "stronger" clutch and a clutch disc that has more friction. . . . which will wear faster all other things being equil.

Stick with me, this will make more sense as we get further into your message . .


All I know is that I don't want to put a stock clutch in my truck again (they're too weak). I've changed clutches in 2wd rangers a few times and it's a breeze. But since I bought this 4x4 I'm really dreading to change the clutch, as it looks like it's going to be much more of a pain.


Amen. I can agree with that across the board. Keep reading . .


I get the impression that Ford may have purposely made these clutches this way (weak). Perhaps to put less strain on the drive train?

The clutch is both a logical and cost effective weak link in the whole drivetrain - by design. This is true of any vehicle, including those with automatic transmissions. A clutch is cheaper/easier to replace than a crankshaft, or ring and pinion, for instance.

Holding power and longevity (disc life) do not necessarily run hand in hand. In fact most often you have to give up some of one to get more of the other. Remember the bottom line; that clutch slips on purpose. Every time it does, it burns up some disc material.

If you want a strong clutch that will *also* last a long long time - no matter who you get it from - it will require more effort to release and it will have a disc (or disks) made from some type of composite, probably containing ceramics.

Now, I have my opinion. And you do too
I hope it helped.

 

I completely agree with you. But it seems that Ford made the these clutches (1st generation Rangers at least) just a bit TOO weak.

 

Try to find someone that has used one of the Centerforce clutches. I also am very leary of one that would take more pedal effort to operate. I had a "performance" clutch in a 65 Mustang. It wouldn't engage smoothly and I thought I was going to bend the firewall pushing it in.