New clutch and break-in proceedure?
 

Okay, so I recently had to replace my clutch and my car is currently in the shop. I'm having them replace the RMS at the sale time just to be safe. But my question is do I need to break-in the new clutch like I would with a new car? I.E. driving it at certain speeds in each gear? Is there a proper break-in proceedure for a new clutch on and older engine car? My car is an 01 with 55K on it. I'm getting the complete Clutch Kit installed. Bearing, Plates, etc. Any advice would be welcome. :cheers:

I think clutch break-in periods are somewhere between 1500 - 3000 miles depending on the type of clutch. I think performance clutches require longer break-in periods compaired to standard or OEM clutches.

No going over 4000rpms i believe.

Good to know. My new clutch is an O.E.M. replacement. Got it from Suncoast.

I have never read or heard of a break in period for a clutch..... does anyone have any info on this??

Im on the same boat :confused:

I've never really heard of a break-in for a clutch.

When I replaced the clutch in my old truck years back, I just picked it up from the shop and drove it. It functioned fine!

No going over 4000rpms for 1500-3000 miles? There is no way that is true

There is no break in period for a new clutch or RMS, I've been replacing them for over 35 years....

Yes, clutches do have break in periods! Just like brake pads need bedding in. It is important NOT to slip it for the first 100miles or so.


I am not sure if performance clutches require more break-in miles or not, but my Centerforce and my ACT 600# street clutch had recommended 300-500 miles break in from the factory.

just dont do what you did last time ;)

Think about it like this, when you buy a new car with zero miles on it and it is a manual, there is usually a break-in period. Mainly for the engine, but I would think that the clutch would have to be handled in the same way. It's all brand new again! ;)

No wonder your still replacing them... :D

Your probably right, it might be less than that, Like boxsterz said, dont slip the clutch for at least 100 miles. Im sure you would have to take it easy on the clutch disc for atleast another 300 miles... Sorta like braking in your brake pads, they need to be eased on till they are conformed, until they are properly seated with the flywheel and pressure plate.

There isnt a specific "break in procedure" to a new clutch, but its best to be nice to it for a few hundred miles to bed in the friction material. Obviously driving the car requires some slip whenever you get to a stoplight, but you certainly don't want to be abusing a new clutch. Many racers will put a few hundred on a new clutch "being nice" before they take it to the track. No, break in is not a 2000 miles.

Patrick

How much have you guys payed for parts + labor to replace clutch?