I have a 98 Dodge 3500 with the 24V turbo Cummins engine, 5 speed manual transmission and am curious about what I can expect out of the clutch as far as it's life goes. I understand there are many variables. Currently I have 130000 miles on the truck and am beginning to wonder. No slipping yet, but I am getting ready to pull my trailer, 34 ft 5th wheel, from the Oregon coast over to Montana and back. Thanks for any input.

 

The clutch should last quite a while but you will probably lose 5th before it does wear out (assuming it's not w/ the updated nut). I lost 5th gear @ 120k and converted to 6- speed, when the stock clutch came out it was pretty worn and most of the springs fell out. So when 5th gear goes change the clutch too.

 

I lost my 6 spd. clutch at 30,000 mi. due to EZ box and hauling heavy thru the Rockies.

 

I'd say it wouldn't hurt to go in there now and check the condition of your throwout and pilot bearings

 

I lost my clutch at 50000 pulling a 12000 lb down the road. Did a good deed earlier pulled a ford with a boat that was stuck in a river. If you burn your clutch you shorten its life. My VA box doesnt help but the stock clutch should have held up. Replaced with Carolina Clutch no problems.

 

I hauled heavy with mine with an exhaust brake and broke the center out of my clutch at 90000 miles when I took it out it still looked good. I've had a Power Max 2 on it since 25000 miles or so.

 

A clutch can last quite a long time if the truck is used mostly on the hwy.

Most clutch issues on these trucks seem to come from exceeding the stock parameters-- either hauling too much weight, or uprating the power.

On a totally stock truck, the clutch should last well over 100K if driven sensibly. Like others said, you'll probably lose 5th gear on the NV4500 before you lose the clutch.

Justin

 

I've got 89,000 on the stock clutch pulling a 40ft warrior toy house fully loaded witha a jeep at 17,000 pounds.Been using an EZ comp.with many upgrades.It is time though for a new clutch.I am definately going with a sb clutch