Displayed price will automatically adjust depending on clutch chosen
Replacement clutch kits for '82-'88 E28 5-series with M30 engine
How to choose a clutch
The selection of the correct clutch for the
intended application is critical to good operation, including the
characteristics of (but not limited to:
- clutch feel
- operating temperature range
- wear characteristics / durability
- clamping force
- break-in period
Quite often, the first impulse is to get
"too much" clutch. This is often a very big mistake, as there
will be compromises in some or all of the operational features listed above.
The first step in identifying what clutch to
get is dependent on the characteristics of the car. Ask these questions:
- How much power does the car make?
- How is it used? Street driving or
track use? If for racing, what kind of racing?
As we are dealing with BMW applications here,
let's use an widely-understood example - the 1992-2004 6-cylinder
3-series. Over this 12 year period comprising two different chassis, we
are still dealing with virtually the same fundamental engine and transmission
designs. Power ranges from around 190hp to 333hp. Typical bolt-on
modifications bring many of the early models up to the 215hp-260hp range and
later models around 350hp. Extensive modifications including
supercharging or turbocharging bring power to the 350hp-450hp range, with some
examples in the 500hp-600hp range. The typical BMW enthusiast uses the
car primarily for sporty street driving, and the occasional auto-x or track
day. The 3-series is also popular as a heavily-tracked car and dedicated
race car. Some see time spent drag racing, whether occasionally or as
dedicated drag racers.
So it is apparent that we have a broad range of power and use to contend with.
Presented in increasing "aggressiveness", here is a brief overview
of clutch compounds, their power handling, and other characteristics:
(note that hp figures are generalized, pressure plate clamping force and
torque curves are additional factors)
performance
organic |
CHARACTERISTICS |
Same as organic
above |
USE |
Street-driven
track cars up to 500hp, auto-x and track use. |
|
cerametallic |
CHARACTERISTICS |
Very high
temperature materials, usually only found on multi-puck disks. Will
accommodate 500hp+. Engagement is more abrupt. Will wear
flywheel surface faster, especially in traffic situations. Has
a higher temp range. Multi-puck design may result in slight
shuddering or "stepped" engagement when used in traffic
situations, although many users report completely acceptable operation.
Material is a light tan coolor. |
USE |
Street/strip
applications for drag-racing, heavy track use, and TCD turbo
applications. Will take very hard use, suitable for extreme-clamping
applications. |
|