There is not thread on how to break in a new clutch, more specifically, a higher performing clutch like the one I'm getting from Excelerate (thanks!!!!).

I've been told that I need to break in this clutch easily at first. Oh, probably good to note I'm getting the first production of the Fidanza flywheel (josh will have those as well).

 

well, you definately won't be overpowering any upgraded clutch/flywheel combo with a naturally aspirated tsx. i'd give it 500 smooth miles and then the fun really begins! you planning on dyno?

 

My only problem is that I have the heavy Avons on the car. My previous dyno run was done with ES100s, 4 lbs per tire lighter.

 

^ i see, it would've been a more objective comparo with the old tires on. in any case, enjoy being the guinea pig and let us know your thoughts once setup is complete.

 

Of course!! I'm already trying to line up the mechanic and day yet the parts aren't physically on my doorstep.

 

No revving the car out, no dropping the clutch, no gear chirping. Basically do 500 easy miles on the clutch. If you do the aforementioned things you risk glazing the disc.

 

Didn't know if there was a theory of, do more highway than stop and go. I have 2 routes I can take to work. The faster one is stop and go lights the entire way (~7 miles). The longer way is all highway and takes a lot more time (~17 miles).

 

I'd say do stop-n-go. It's easy enough on the clutch and it will break in faster.

MBA

 

Well I have my clutch kit. Ended up with the AT1-HG6 per Josh's recommendation (just a 6 puck instead of the 4 puck). Looks like my flywheel has arrived too. Pics to be taken soon.

 

Ooh...gotta tell us how it all is once installed...

 

of course.

 

Here is a pic of the kit.

BTW, I've said this many times before, but Excelerate (Josh) is a fantastic vendor. Absolutely has my business without hesitation.

ACT AT1-HDG6 6 Puck Clutch Kit and OEM Release Bearing:

 

What's the friction material on the 6-puck?

 

Would need Josh to weigh in on this one for certain, but it has the same texture as a brake pad, so I'm assuming it is either some sort of ceramic compound or carbon metallic.

 

You want more stop and go than highway when breaking in the clutch.

 

Looks like the clutch material is a Copper Ceramic compound. I wasn't familiar with this compound, so I 'd it and you'll find plenty of material. Here's the salesman story:

Shifting is quick and sure due to the lightweight rigid design. ACT Xtreme Race Discs are available in 4 or 6-pad solid hub design, these pads (pucks, buttons) are highly durable and resistant to heat. Why use an ACT Xtreme Race Disc? The copper ceramic material holds approximately 28% more torque than an organic lining. ACT Copper Ceramic Xtreme Race Discs engage fairly harsh and are not normally recommended for street use. ACT recommends 6-pad ACT Xtreme Race Discs for larger clutch sizes to absorb more heat and for smoother engagement.

 

Let us know if you experience any clutch chatter with that material.

 

Will do. I already have clutch chatter now with the OEM shyte. Its that same symptom we have in a thread in here. Only really happens if I'm on a hill engaging the clutch.

 

He has a sprung disc, so it will be somewhat more forgiving than a solid setup. As I explained to Moda (Ryan) there will be a touch of clutch chatter in first gear b/c a 6 puck, as I'm sure you know, doesn't like to be slipped. It doesn't grab like a full face disc. So there will be some clutch chatter in first gear. This clutch setup is set to hold about 350 ft lbs of tq so it is plenty enough. I recommended the 6 puck setup to him b/c there are more points of contact; the 4 puck will be a little more grabby.

 

Does ACT offer a full face clutch kit?

 

Josh told me yes, but I would have had to wait since it would need to be made. Obviously with some lead time, you have this option, but I'm trying to get all this clutch/flywheel stuff done soon, so I was willing to compromise a little.

 

Yes they do as Moda said.

 

How is this clutch compared to other brands? Like Excedy?

 

Aside from OEM, only ACT to my knowledge offers a TSX specific application. Excedy requires that you get their flywheel as well because the kits are for the RSX Type S.

 

The ACT clutch must be very new because their web site still doesn't list one for the TSX yet.

 

I'm not sure how new, but I have found other sites listing it, but not at as good of a price as Excelerate.

 

Hey moda-way, how are you liking your new clutch and flywheel setup?

I'm sure you're done breaking it in...I'd like to know your impressions of your setup.

 

I'm kinda pissed right now. I've got an Acura mechanic to do it who has a ton of experience, but his lift broke 2 weekends ago when I was supposed to get it done. I'm hoping he can do it this coming weekend.

 

damn you mean that shit still isnt installed. damn.

 

I think the first damn covered it.

You know my impatience with shyte like this, but the price is right and the guy is 100% trustworthy.

FYI, I have spec'd out what a normal shop would charge. Straight rate, I was quoted $700 just for installation of the flyhwheel and clutch kit. When you have to drop the subframe, suspend the engine and use a tranny stand, you can see that it isn't a normal job.

 

no wonder you've been kinda ghost on the posts lately

 

Well that and work is freakin killing me. Took a new job in the same company.

NOTE: Please, no congrats b/c the jury is still out on this one.

 

yeah you have been MIA for a while have havent talked to you in a long time.

 

I've been around, just not posting like I used to. I've flexed my Mod powers here and there.

 

My friend changed flywheel and clutch on his TSX without dropping the subframe. It's possible although not much room to work with (I dropped subframe when I did my clutch and it was a lot of extra work).

MBA

 

Good to know. Did you just pull off the half shaft, unbolt the tranny and slide it over?


The guy doing my installation is an Acura mechanic and follows what the Service book, which I too read. I don't know how you could even fit the alignment tool in there if you don't do all the steps they mention, but please tell me you took photos.

I will be taking some while my installation is being done.

 

He didn't tell me details; and I don't think there are pictures. I myself DID drop the subframe because I didn't realize that there would be enough room there (took me >10 hours!)

You need to remove the tranny from the subframe and from top frame and drop the engine and tranny a little so that there is room. Then the tranny will slide out from under the frame section and you have an extra couple of inches to work with. Just take a look under your car when you have time and I think you'll know what I'm taking about.

MBA

 

For those of you still looking to do this mod, the flywheels are now in stock. And we carry the ACT clutches too.

 

Excelerate, you have a PM regarding the ACT clutches.

 

pm sent.