DeTomaso Mailing List: August 97, Message #219
     



From: Pantera International <panteras@fia.net>

Subject: Centerforce clutches

Date: Thu, 7 Aug 1997 21:15:40 -0700 (PDT)



I have read with interest the letters proclaiming the superiority of the

Centerforce clutch for the Pantera. I recently had one installed by a

"Pantera shop" that should have known better that these clutches are not as

bullet proof as one might think. We had a clutch failure on the relatively

new unit. We now find that these clutches really cannot stand up to revs

over 6,000 and horsepower much over 400. Since we shift at 7,ooo or more and

have over 500 horsepower, these clutches simply aren't stout enough. The

clutch was also improperly selected by the shop, a 10 1/2" instead of an 11"

and was not installed properly. Jerry over at PI Motorsports removed the

clutch and put in a McLeod dual disc, 11" size, that is simply out of this

world. If you go by PI Motorsports, you may be able to inspect the deceased

Centerforce yourself.   We ran that new McLeod clutch for three days of

racing at Tustin Thunder and it was matchless. Never had such a good clutch

in the car.

         We now are very bitter with the Centerforce as well as the Pantera

mechanic who selected and installed it. It is pointless to name this

mechanic, however, I note his name being extolled in this news group

constantly. Because we used to be customers of Lance Nist, I will say that

it wasn't Lance who made the misapplication. Please don't blame him.  In

fairness to Centerforce, we understand it is a decent clutch, FOR THE RIGHT

APPLICATION.  Thus, make sure your mechanic undestands how the clutch is to

be used and make sure if you race that your mechanic knows what he is

talking about. You've been warned.

Cordially,

Dave Adler

Dave & Linda Adler

PANTERA International

Voice:  714-848-6674

Fax:       714-843-5851





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