01RAMer

I've had this truck for some time and I pull a camper. Two years ago, the clutch cylinder when out, so like a dummy, I took it to the local dealer. To be on the safe side while the truck was there, I had them replace the clutch, throwout bearing and pilot. They said the flywheel was burnt so they also sent it out to be shaved. All this for a total of $1700.00 for all stock. Being a diesel mechanic at one time in my life, I've changed my share of clutches, and felt this to be a bit high. Well, last Friday, I was taking my camper for inspection and when pulling a hill, the clutch started slipping in fifth. On the way back I noticed some slipping in forth. I contacted the dealer and was told it was nothing they did, and it was me because I pull a trailer. At one time I drove truck so I feel I can drive with a clutch. At least you don't have to double clutch these. Anyway, search this site for suggestions, I see recomendations for South Bend and Valair Ceramic clutches. These are certainly expensive and was wondering if I really need to go that route, or if there is a better suggestion for a less price. I really do appreciate any input. I'm doing the job myself this time and was planning to replace the flywheel with a stock one. Any suggestions?

torquefan

On a stock truck the clutches are generally very durable and long lasting, even if towing frequently. However, adding power to the engine can put an extra strain on it to the point where a higher performance clutch may be a necessity. I won't recommend any specific types, I'm sure someone else will chime in who is more knowledgeable in the aftermarket stuff than me.

Backwoods Bumpers

I have had a Valair kevlar/ceramic in my last 3 trucks. On my 1999 5 speed, I did the 13" flywheel upgrade, which seemed to help a lot. I've never had one slip! Dan at Valair is awesome to deal with also.

rebal

I installed a south bend con o and it has not slipped in 5 years now but 3 months ago I had my 6sd rebuilt and the shop asked me to come take a look at my fly wheel....... it has cut a nice 2+" wide groove into my fly wheel ,they wanted to redo it also ,but I said no,it hasnt slipped ever and I pull 16,000 -26,000 lbs loads all the time it still is holding fine and if it goes I will swap it out my self ,but might look for one that engages a little smoother. the one mod I have done to the 01 is a 2 wheel low switch it is a life saver moving heavy trailers in tight ,uneven or just plain bad ground.

01RAMer

Thanks for your input. Can I go with a 13'' flywheel even though I don't have the high output engine and I have 5 speed? I would imagine it gives better performance due to the greater surface area, correct?

01RAMer

When you say it doesn't engage smoothly, are you talking about it grabbing? Have you found one that works smoother? I assume ceramic is the way to go, regardless? Is there a better flywheel to be had?

01RAMer

I see after some research that I can upgrade to a 13" flywheel, but haven't been able to find information on what has to be done with the starter? Also, how hard is the input shaft upgrade?

Backwoods Bumpers

The starter isn't a big deal. I don't remember which way you need to go, but you will either remove the spacer if you have one, or install one that they send with you. Either company you choose will explain everything you need to know in full detail!

01RAMer

Good news, Thanks! This is the greatest place for info!

01RAMer

How hard is the 5 speed input shaft upgrade and do I really need it?

gorms

It's pretty extensive to swap out the input, basically need to tear down the entire trans. Need special pullers to get the bearings off the shafts (or cut them) and then they need to be shimmed up to specs on install. It can be done at home, just takes some time if you don't have the right tools.

As far as needing it, I've seen a few 3-400hp trucks with a few miles on the stocker. Also have read about people with the same power breaking upgraded shafts.

Also, another good report for 13" kev/ceramic from valair. I slipped their 12 1/4 full ceramic on a sled pull with 10k miles on it, new one has taken some abuse (about 15k on it now I think) between towing and messing around and it still takes it. 13" kit I got came with flywheel + ball bearing hd pilot, starter spacer and all the hardware. Good luck.

01RAMer

gorms, if I'm understanding you correctly, your opinion is that the 12 1/4 Ceramic was not good for you, but the KEV/Cer is holding up well? This is a single disk right (MNU70279-06-5SCE)?

gorms

Yup single disc kevlar one side ceramic on the other button type clutch. I went with their recommendation on the new setup, because I do tow a trailer in the warm weather, camper is about 7500 plus another ton in bikes/gas/wood/etc. I think it technically has the same power rating, and is a bit smoother engaging with the trailer. Still isn't a stock organic clutch, so it is a bit grabby, but managable with some practice. The full ceramic was described to me from valair as "empty truck only". Which proved true, was horrible backing up trailer without throttle, and slipped for about 150' of the sled pull....as far as it would go.

rebal

yes it is very grabby ,and I havn,t found or looked for that matter for a new clutch yet but I will more then likely call SBC and see what else they can offer me there good people to deal with

TN5.9

I have an 01 2500 H.O. With an nv5600 tranny. Quite a few modifications. I put Southbend clutch in it. The whole thing flywheel, pressure, pilot bearing etc. Put it in about 40k ago and love it. I pull a lot working on cattle farm and have had no problems. Costed around 1700. Highly recommend it.