Gary Z

I propose that we establish some form of a clutch-life database. The database could be as simple as this thread. I am making this proposal in the Drag Racing Tech section rather than the Manual Transmission section because I think that the accumulated number of passes (eighth-mile or quarter-mile) is a much better measure of clutch durability than total highway miles. The database should include the following information:

1) Total number of dragstrip passes - 55
2) Whether the clutch has failed or is still in use - Failed
3) Average or typical engine speed at launch (rpm) - 5000
4) Typical 60' Time (seconds) - 1.65
5) Vehicle Race Weight (lbs) - 3400
6) Vehicle Wheel Horsepower - 390
7) Clutch Identification - Ram Powergrip HD

Such a database could help answer several interesting questions, such as: 1) How many drag races can a clutch be expected to survive? 2) How do launch rpm and other factors effect clutch life? I am more interested in those questions than in trying to identify “the best clutch” which is undoubtedly a mirage. What say ye? My data is above.

Gary Z

I forgot, I also have data for my stock clutch. Some of you probably have data for several - let's see it.

1) Total number of dragstrip passes - 30
2) Whether the clutch has failed or is still in use - Failed
3) Average or typical engine speed at launch (rpm) - 2500
4) Typical 60' Time (seconds) – 2.10
5) Vehicle Race Weight (lbs) - 3400
6) Vehicle Wheel Horsepower - 350
7) Clutch Identification – Original 2002 Z06

djsanchez2

iTrader: (14)

Very good idea. I'll start keepin a log when i get the new clutch.

Gary Z

I think the best log book is Microsoft Excel. Most people don’t realize how easy it is to use, or how powerful. If you haven’t used Excel, a simple way to start would be to have someone show you how to enter your timeslips. As you become more familiar with Excel, you will see the value of recording other information such as tire pressure and comments about modifications to your car. As it grows, an Excel log will allow you to take advantage of more advanced features like making charts showing your ET progress. And if Excel doesn’t appeal to you, you should at least make short notes (tire pressure) on your timeslips and keep them organized. Drag racing is complicated. If you really want to learn what works and what doesn’t, you need a scientific approach, which means keeping a log. I apologize for the sermon.

Gary Z

I found these posts in other threads. This is valuable information.

badpewter-z

iTrader: (4)

I'll add to this, good idea

old clutch
1)150+ passes
2)replaced but going in another car
3)5-6k
4)1.6
5)3600
6)was 445/408
7)SPEC 3"x"

also put 30k miles on that clutch

New Clutch
1)4 passes
2)still in use
3)4-6k
4)1.599
5)3600+(scales closed)
6)no dyno#s yet
7)SPEC stg 5

Gary Z

Thanks, but it might have been a better idea if I had asked for less information – number of passes and typical ET, maybe. Number of miles is obviously a worthless measure of clutch life for drag racers. I’m surprised there is so little mention of number of passes.

Gary Z

Here's another old post with the some of the info I think we need.

Duffster

iTrader: (103)

STOCK clutch with 106500 miles:
1) Total number of dragstrip passes - 5
2) Whether the clutch has failed or is still in use - still in use (daily driver)
3) Average or typical engine speed at launch (rpm) - 1000-2000 varies
4) Typical 60' Time (seconds) - 2.10
5) Vehicle Race Weight (lbs) - 3600 & recently as low as 3260 (car alone)
6) Vehicle Wheel Horsepower - 319
7) Clutch Identification - stock. . .