The primary purpose behind upgrading the gear is replacing the stock one that isn’t able to handle the amount of torque the vehicle produces. It’s usually dependent on the vehicle and driver since a rigorously used however, a less powerful engine wears its clutch much faster than a powerful engine that is driven with care. The wear on the clutch could be as severe as it slipping out of control under pressure and it could also happen when you are using full power for short durations, such as drifting, drag racing, or when you are driving at a high speed.
The standard clutches are made to make sure that even the least experienced driver can get around easily. However, the price is shorter lifespan and the inability to handle more power. A lot of supercars struggle to propel themselves more than a couple of times without damaging the clutch precisely for this reason. However, if the manufacturer put in a clutch that was able to efficiently handle the force under extreme conditions, it would be difficult for the majority of owners to operate.
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What’s a clutch? what is it used for?
In simple terms the clutch is the device which connects the engine to the transmission in order to drive the wheels. It is operated by friction discs (connected with the gearbox) that is compressed by a spring pressure plate against the flywheel (which is linked directly to an engine) to transfer power to the other. The clutch is disengaged by pushing the pedal breaks the friction discs as well as the flywheel, breaking the link between the engine and the gearbox. This permits the user to shift gears or completely stop the engine running , but not delivering drive to the wheels.
Clutch guides Clutch guide: Do they all share identical in layout?
Most automotive clutches work on the same concept: a kind of rotating friction disc that is clamped to a flywheel using the pressure plate to transfer energy. The types of friction materials used, the dimension and shape of the discs, along with the amount of discs utilized in any platform or in any application may differ.
The standard clutch is fine for most cars however, once you start to boost power – or more precisely, torque – you’ll need an engineered clutch that has a stronger pressure plate as well as more aggressive and durable friction materials.
Helix provides a variety of modifications, from basic kits that offer good street-driveability and up to complete race equipment with numerous friction plates that are required to handle the massive toque load and aggressive racing, but are not as concerned about day-today driving needs.
What materials are they made of?
The pressure plates that surround them are typically a sprung metal design and the clutch friction discs themselves use different friction materials based on the type of application and the power handling. The most commonly used materials fall into the following categories:
Organic
Smooth, durable, typically quieter and more comfortable to mat with the opposite surface. Organic materials are popular, however they are not ideal for high-performance environments due to their insensitivity to extreme heat and their less durable.
Carbon/Kevlar
Similar clamping characteristics similar to organic materials, and the same smooth operation, but it is able to stand up to heat and pressure much better when coupled to a highly-rated pressure plate.
Ceramic
The highest friction coefficient Ceramic material offers more grip – which means that you do not require such a strong force to clamp. However, the flip side is that ceramic materials can wear away the flywheel’s surface and can result in an increase in vibration and shudder. Most commonly, they are used in competition instances where you’re raising the power output.
Clutch Guide What is the difference between aftermarket and OEM clutches? differ from OEM clutches?
Original clutches for cars are created to work with the car’s power output, and they are likely to fail when you increase the power significantly by tuning. Performance clutches (like the ones Helix creates) come in various specifications to operate at higher performance and torque levels which means that no matter what your car’s speed or performance there is an appropriate clutch for you.
Additionally, many performance clutches weigh less than standard (especially when used with a lighter flywheel) which means less mass of rotation for the engine and equates to a higher revving and less transmission loss.
When, or why, should you upgrade your clutch?
It’s worth upgrading your clutch if are planning to experience a substantial boost in power or torque like boost boosts, re-mapping, or engine upgrades – since this puts more stress on the entire drivetrain and wear down a stock clutch faster. This is the time to get the performance clutch.
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The options you have will be contingent on the level of power upgrade as well as your the purpose of your use.
What is the most important thing to do? find the correct clutch?
Apart from ensuring that you purchase the right clutch for your vehicle, you must think about your torque and power levels as well as your driving style and the way you plan to make use of the vehicle. It is not worth purchasing the most powerful clutch when you’re not likely to be able to warrant it. However, not speccing your clutch correctly can result in it wearing out too quickly and not being appropriate for your needs.
Also, be aware of the pedal’s weight and the ease of modulation are also important when you’re looking to enjoy your car out on the streets or wish it to perform well and operate in traffic. On the other hand, for racers, an aggressive and snatchy clutch will not be much of a problem , as long as it is able to withstand the continuous abuse and force-launch begins. The best option is to talk to a professional such as Helix and they can discuss your needs and recommend an upgrade that works for you.