pemberton

iTrader: (1)

I bought a 1999 Corvette LS1 one for my Firebird V8 swap. The engine has been setting in a garage since 2003, so there is some rust. I have many question for this swap but my first is whether I need to get a new clutch. I don't know if it is normal for these to be rusty or not. Here are some pics.

Grimes

iTrader: (3)

Looks like mostly surface rust to me, probably would run. However, I would just go with an ls7 clutch if I had the funds. Much better in every way.

Red99TA

iTrader: (11)

I know you can turn the flywheel to knock the surface rust off - not sure if they can do a pressure plate or not (I would think you could). If so you could get both of those turned and throw in a new disk and it would be good to go. Being a used LS1 clutch though I wouldn't go through the trouble and would instead just throw in an LS7 clutch kit as they're pretty cheap and will handle a decent amount of power.

pemberton

iTrader: (1)

I was thinking of just knocking the rust off and painting the pressure plate with an engine paint. Is this a bad idea? Does this clutch have normal wear for 28,000 miles, what do you think?

pemberton

iTrader: (1)

Also how is a LS7 clutch better?

Red99TA

iTrader: (11)

You can get the LS7 clutch, pressure plate, and flywheel for about $475 shipped. It's better being that it's made to handle the power of the C6 Z06 (around 440RWHP stock) and it will drive and feel like any other factory clutch.

It's also hard to tell how many miles are on that LS1 clutch especially considering the PP and FW surfaces are covered in rust. The disc appears to have a lot of material which would make me think 28K miles might be right.

pemberton

iTrader: (1)

Well that sounds good about the 28,000 miles part. For $500 dollars for an LS7 clutch would I be better off to get a Spec clutch or something else that is lighter than stock. I have seen a couple Stage 1 & 2's on eBay for around $400. Would they be better. How will the feel, do they effect anything. Would they not be ideal or comfortable for a DD? Thanks again

pemberton

iTrader: (1)

Also couldn't I just buy a better clutch disc like you said? There isn't any differences with flywheels and pressure plates besides weight right?

Grimes

iTrader: (3)

The LS7 clutch comes with pretty much upgraded everything, and you need to use a new, specific flywheel with it. It's definitely worth the added cost though. Do a search and you should find all the info you need.