Clutches Clutches

[nickT]

Hi all, I know we've had this discussion before but ...
is a VW 180mm clutch kit up to the job of propelling a 1600cc 60bhp 356 A.
I need the the kit with the clip on thrust bearing, no guide tube on my 'box.
What have you used ??
Cheers Nick.

[912uk]

I have an old orginal clutch Which John said would be fine to use.. but I did manage to buy a 1500cc van clutch set in the end as this is what most poeple were talking about..

But as you know I have not run the car yet

[Rustbucket]

id love to know this too- but because I am running a 912 engine. I was told a bus clutch was good- but i would need a different flywheel ?

[Airhead]

Personally I'd say no as the most powerful engine the 180mm VW clutch was fitted to was late 1300cc twin port at a mighty 45bhp! Go 200mm though and you should be okay (also opens up the world of KEP uprated VW pressure plates).

A suitable bus clutch for a 912 engine you're probably looking at a 215mm type 4 late bus set up in which case you'd need either your existing flywheel modified or to fit a type 4 flywheel in which case you'd need to pay attention to the offset of the starter ring gear to make sure it engaged properly and the dowel pattern. I think but I am no expert.

[912uk]

the bus 1500cc 180mm clutch had the highest footpound rating so that is why it has been used for just this sort of job. a 200mm fly wheel for a 356 is as rare as rocking horse sh*t and if you get it then you have to grind some of the bell houseing to make it fit the gear box ... so most people don't want to do that.. hence the 1500 bus clutch.. straight fit. and run.

[Paul Knight]

when i fitted a 356 motor to a bug I had clutch probs (slipping). I sorted it by fitting a Bugpack heavy-duty 180mm cover plate supplied by SSP (street style and power 08709 915407). I think it cost me about £35ish and it's rated at 1500lb. It was enough to spin up fat 205/70 tyres on the bug and cured the slipping problem instantly