Clutch options for a 200

[Anonymous]

Howdy all,

I'm trying to figure out what my options are for replacing the clutch in my '66 Mustang. I've got a full-syncro 3 speed behind it, but as the swap was performed by a previous owner, I don't know if that affects my clutch choice.

I've seen 8.5" clutches advertised by various mustang supply houses for the 200, but the Chilton manual I have lists the '66 200 as having a 9" clutch and pressure plate.

Anyways, my question is, what options do I have in procuring a clutch kit? How big of a clutch will fit inside my bellhousing? Further, will whatever I get simply be a 'stock replacement' deal, or are there options, such as a lighter spring rate or higher torque rating?

Thanks,
-Chris

 

[blueroo]

I would measure the inside of your flywheel as well. I was going to look for a 9.5" heavy duty replacement clutch for my Fairlane when the 8.5" standard duty clutch went out. When I measured the flywheel, it's inside diameter was less than 9.5" so apparently Ford used different flywheels for different clutches

 

[mustang6]

Standard size for the 66+ flat 200 flywheel is 9". Back in the day, there was a heavy-duty 9 3/8" clutch option for the 200 that was used on Broncos and Econolines.

I haven't seen a listing for that one in many years, but the closest thing I've seen is this replacement 9 1/4" clutch that says you need to clearance the inside of the bellhousing a bit to fit.

http://www.tomsbroncoparts.com/product.php?id=720

Other than that, I would contact one of the performance clutch houses and ask if they have anything in a 9" Ford clutch disc with higher friction materials. It will be harder on the pressure plate and flywheel, but I don't know much else you could do with the space limitations there without increasing spring pressure in the cover plate (causes other problems) or getting radical.

 

[AZstang66]

I would highly recommend McLeod clutches. I bought a racing diaphragm clutch, flywheel, throwout bearing etc from them. It is of the highest quality and fits perfectly. They also make street application clutches.
Just give them a call, they know exactly what clutch you would need.
I too currently have a 3-speed syncro, and it works well with the diaphragm.
In the past, before I discovered McLeod, I tried the rebuilt ones from transmission shops, atozone etc.
Be very careful; i would say about 75% of them have warped clutch pressure plates.

also, if you have a synchro tranny, it is most likely post-1966. So you should probably look for a 1967 clutch.

 

[Anonymous]

You are correct, my tranny is a '68. What difference is there between the '66 and '68 clutches? I was under the impression they both had the same shaft size and diameter...

Also, does anyone have any experience with McLeod hydraulic throwout bearings? I already have a hydraulic set-up, so I'd be going from a pull-type slave cylinder (a really questionable set up) to the T/O bearing, but I'm wondering if there are any complications to that arrangement I should be aware of before a throw down the money for it.

Thanks.

 

[mleega1]

WHAT ABOUT THE 2.3 SVO MUSTANG CLUTCH AND PRESSURE PLATE, I THINK THESE ARE 9" AND SHOULD BE A GOOD OPTION. NOT 100% SHURE IT WILL BOLT DIRECTLY ON. ANY ONE KNOW FOR SHURE?

 

[Shrinkdude]

I bought a regular 9" clutch kit for a '78 faimont to fit in my '66. I had to use an older throwout bearing but the clutch and diaphram pressure plate fit fine.