I ended up going with an 11 inch Long clutch, had to rework my fork, no trouble. I also got the Mummert adapter for the T5 while I was at it. Hope to have it in the car in a couple weeks.

James Potter
`57 Fords International



`57 Custom Tudor

`57 Fords International National Director

Pass Christian, MS (near Gulfport/Biloxi)

I have a centerforce long replacement diaphram set-up it has raised fingers with my dual friction clutch it locks up smoothly and progressively with almost no peddle pressure to release. Makes the car a joy to drive even in traffic.

Mike, still lovin his 57 t'bird after 53 years!

I am running a Centerforce 11" clutch and pressure plate in my 56 Customline with a T-5. I just love it. Very light pedal. but the clutch holds like crazy. I spent the last 1/2 hour looking for a receipt with the part numbers, but so far I could only find the bright orange installation and instruction sheets that they provide. I think if you get on their website and tell the technicians what the application is they can get you the correct part #'s.

Rono.

  Ron Lane,  Meridian, ID

Ok can you help a rookie when it comes to manual transmissions. I am going to convert my car to a T-5 this winter. My friend Alex has all the parts I need (bell housing, flywheel, pedals, clutch linkage etc.) all I need to do is buy the pressure plate and clutch disk(I was told for a 10" clutch). I am going to use a Mummert adapter, can anyone recommend a clutch disc / pressure plate??? I was told that "Centerforce" is one of the best?????? (agree??) Any part #'s would be appreciated. Thank you!

I love the smell of burning rubber in the morning!

The one in my T Bird was for a 390 Ford pick up which would have had mechanical clutch linkage.

So far, my experience has been that diaphragm plates provide a lighter pedal. The Mustang dual friction unit in the truck now provided a lighter pedal than the stock replacement long plate that was in there.

Actually, the stock replacement diaphragm clutch in my Firebird feels heavier. It is hydraulic.


Lawrenceville, GA

My experience with diaphragm pressure plates has been that the units that are designed to be used with hydraulic clutch assists are extremely stiff at the pedal when used in conjunction with a mechanically levered pedal.  Looking at the original application for a pressure plate will sometimes get you around this nuance by looking specifically for non-hydraulically assisted diaphragm pressure plates when using them in a mechanically actuated application.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

I agree with you, i have 2 yblock 4 speed cars both with diaphram p/plates and are firm but easy on the leg, and these dia p/plates are known in the world as gentler to use.

  AussieBill            YYYY    Forever Y Block     YYYY

 Down Under, Australia

There are different spring thicknesses for diaphragm pressure plates. If the P.P. has more clamping force it will be harder to push the pedal.

In the dim past I put a heavy duty diaphragm in a scrub and it was terrible to drive.

Make sure you have the clutch fork correctly installed on the pivot bracket in the bellhousing. If incorrect it can be very hard to push the pedal.

All new vehicles have diaphragm P.P.'s so I guess they're okay.

If the pedal sticks to the floor the pressure plate is probably being traveled too far. Also, you adjust the spring tension on the assist spring under the dash.

If you over travel a Long style they will re-engage.

http://ford-y-block.com 

20 miles east of San Diego, 20 miles north of Mexico

My experience was that the Diaphram clutch had less peddle pressure and was easier to drive and shift. I do not have a clue as to we would have opposite experiences.