Choosing the right action clutch is a critical decision for any driving enthusiast or performance-minded mechanic. It’s the vital link between your engine’s power and the wheels on the pavement, directly influencing shift feel, acceleration, and overall drivability. A high-quality clutch ensures smooth engagement and reliable power transfer, whether you’re navigating daily traffic or pushing the limits on a track day.
This roundup focuses on clutches built for performance and longevity, highlighting options from trusted manufacturers. We’ve compiled a list of ten standout products designed to meet a variety of needs, from direct OEM replacements to robust, high-torque systems. Our goal is to help you find a clutch that delivers the durability and responsive performance you demand for your vehicle.
Top Action Clutch Kits for Performance and Durability
- Action Clutch OEM Factory Flywheel Honda Civic SI 2012-2015
- Exedy Clutch Kit – KMZ03
- ACT DN3-HDG6 HD Clutch Kit 6 Puck Sprung Dodge Neon SRT-4
- Competition Clutch SCC Stage 2 Steelback Brass Plus 8037-2100
- Valeo 52125203 OE Replacement Clutch Kit
- South Bend Clutch K05048-HD-O Clutch Kit
- Clutch Masters FX100 Clutch Kit For Dodge Dart 2013-2015
- McLeod RST Twin Disc Clutch Kit
- McLeod Clutch Kit, Street Pro, Single Disc
- SPEC Stage 2+ Clutch and Flywheel Kit
Action Clutch OEM Factory Flywheel Honda Civic SI 2012-2015
This OE-HD flywheel from Action Clutch is engineered as a direct, plug-and-play replacement for the factory component in your Honda Civic SI. Its design requires no additional modifications, making the installation process straightforward and hassle-free for both professional mechanics and skilled DIYers. This compatibility ensures a perfect fit and restores the original driving characteristics of your vehicle.
Manufactured from top-grade original equipment materials, this flywheel is built for durability and long-term reliability. It is constructed to withstand the rigors of daily driving, providing consistent performance for years to come. The unit also offers enhanced performance characteristics, including smoother clutch engagement and a more immediate throttle response, making it an ideal choice for maintaining the factory feel.
Exedy Clutch Kit – KMZ03
Exedy is a globally recognized name in clutch manufacturing, known for supplying original equipment components to major automotive brands. The KMZ03 clutch kit is a testament to this reputation, designed to meet or exceed stringent OEM specifications. This focus on quality ensures a reliable and direct replacement for your vehicle’s stock clutch system.
The kit includes all the necessary components for a complete clutch replacement, ensuring everything works together seamlessly. By choosing an Exedy clutch, you are selecting a product known for its consistent performance and dependable operation under normal driving conditions. It is a solid choice for drivers seeking to restore their vehicle’s performance with a trusted, high-quality part.
ACT DN3-HDG6 HD Clutch Kit 6 Puck Sprung Dodge Neon SRT-4
For drivers of the Dodge Neon SRT-4 seeking a significant performance upgrade, the ACT DN3-HDG6 is a heavy-duty solution. This kit features a 6-puck sprung hub disc, which is engineered to handle substantially higher torque levels than a standard organic clutch. The sprung hub design helps dampen drivetrain noise and vibration, making it more manageable for street use.
Built with ACT’s renowned quality, this clutch is intended for both aggressive street driving and track use. It provides a more aggressive engagement that allows for rapid power transfer during high-RPM shifts. If you have modified your SRT-4 for more power, this clutch is designed to handle the increased stress and deliver the performance you need.
Competition Clutch SCC Stage 2 Steelback Brass Plus 8037-2100
This Stage 2 clutch kit from Competition Clutch is tailored for the Acura RSX Type S and is built for drivers who demand more from their vehicle. The “Steelback Brass Plus” design refers to a robust pressure plate and a disc that incorporates brass for improved heat dissipation and friction characteristics. This construction makes it capable of handling increased power and more aggressive driving styles.
It strikes a balance between improved holding capacity and reasonable street manners. The kit is engineered to provide a firm pedal feel and reliable engagement, making it a popular choice for tuned RSX models that see both daily driving and occasional track use. It is a performance-oriented upgrade that doesn’t sacrifice daily usability.
Valeo 52125203 OE Replacement Clutch Kit
Valeo is another original equipment supplier, and this clutch kit is a prime example of their commitment to quality and reliability. Engineered using high-quality components and modern manufacturing technology, it is designed to provide exceptional operation and long service life for a wide range of Toyota, Pontiac, Scion, and Chevrolet models.
The kit utilizes premium friction material that offers better heat dissipation, which is key to preventing premature wear and failure. Furthermore, Valeo incorporates enhanced damper technology in the disc to filter out noise, vibration, and harshness. This focus on refinement ensures that the clutch maintains the comfort and smoothness of the original equipment part.
South Bend Clutch K05048-HD-O Clutch Kit
South Bend Clutch offers this Stage 2 “Daily” kit specifically for the non-turbo 4-cylinder Mitsubishi 3000GT and Stealth. The “Daily” designation indicates that it is engineered to provide increased performance while retaining the driveability expected for regular street use. It is an excellent option for drivers who want a more robust clutch without an overly aggressive pedal feel.
This kit is designed to handle more torque than the stock unit, making it a suitable upgrade for vehicles with minor performance modifications or for drivers who simply want a more durable, long-lasting clutch. South Bend’s reputation for building quality performance clutches means you can expect reliable operation and consistent performance over time.
Clutch Masters FX100 Clutch Kit For Dodge Dart 2013-2015
The Clutch Masters FX100 kit is designed as a high-performance street system for the 2013-2015 Dodge Dart with the 2.0L engine. It features a sprung steel disc, which offers a good balance of durability and smooth engagement compared to a rigid disc. This design makes it well-suited for daily driving while still providing improved performance.
As part of Clutch Masters’ performance lineup, this kit is built to handle more power and stress than a factory clutch. It provides a confident and reliable feel, giving the driver better control during spirited acceleration. For Dart owners looking to enhance their vehicle’s performance and clutch longevity, the FX100 is a strong contender.
McLeod RST Twin Disc Clutch Kit
The McLeod RST represents a significant step up in performance technology. As a twin-disc clutch system, it is engineered for high-horsepower applications, typically in GM vehicles with a 153-tooth flywheel. The twin-disc design effectively doubles the friction surface area, allowing it to hold extreme amounts of torque without a excessively heavy pedal effort.
Despite its race-bred capabilities, the RST is designed to offer surprisingly streetable manners. The use of multiple discs allows for smoother engagement and better heat management compared to a single disc system of similar holding capacity. This is the go-to choice for seriously modified street machines that require maximum performance and reliability.
McLeod Clutch Kit, Street Pro, Single Disc
McLeod’s Street Pro series is a high-performance single disc clutch kit made for Ford Modular engines, such as those found in the 2001.5-2004 Mustang. It utilizes an organic friction material on a sprung hub, which is ideal for providing a smooth, progressive engagement that is very manageable in stop-and-go traffic.
This kit is engineered to offer a significant increase in torque capacity over the stock clutch while maintaining excellent street manners. The organic disc material is quiet and offers a familiar feel, making it a perfect upgrade for daily-driven performance vehicles that see occasional aggressive use. It delivers improved performance without compromising comfort.
SPEC Stage 2+ Clutch and Flywheel Kit
SPEC is a renowned name in the performance clutch industry, and their Stage 2+ kits are designed for drivers who need a clutch that can handle moderate power increases and spirited driving. The “2+” rating typically indicates a clutch that sits between a standard street upgrade and a more aggressive race-oriented unit, offering a strong holding capacity.
These kits often include a lightweight or matched flywheel to help reduce rotational mass, which can lead to improved engine response and quicker acceleration. The combination of a high-quality clutch and a performance flywheel makes this a comprehensive solution for enthusiasts looking to upgrade their entire clutch assembly for better overall performance and durability.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Performance Clutch
When I’m looking for a new clutch, especially one that promises both performance and longevity, I know it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. My driving style, the power my car makes, and what I plan to use the car for are the biggest factors. Getting this wrong can mean a clutch that wears out too fast or a pedal so heavy it’s a workout just to drive to the store.
First, I always consider the clutch material. For a daily driver that sees some spirited driving, an organic or Kevlar disc is my usual go-to. It offers a smooth engagement, is friendly to the flywheel, and handles a moderate power increase well. If my car is modified for the track or has significant horsepower gains, a ceramic or sintered iron disc is the better choice. These materials can handle extreme heat and grip fiercely, but they often chatter at low speeds and can be brutal on the flywheel and pressure plate. For the ultimate street and strip balance, I look at a multi-puck sprung hub design, which combines the grip of a race clutch with some of the civility of a street unit.
Next, I think about the pressure plate. The stock-style diaphragm pressure plate is great for most street applications. It has a predictable feel and is generally easy to live with. If I need more clamping force for high horsepower, I consider a heavy-duty diaphragm plate. For serious race applications, a multi-button “puck” style plate is used, but that’s overkill for nearly every street car. I also pay close attention to the clutch’s torque rating. I always choose a clutch rated for at least 10-15% more torque than my engine currently produces. This gives me a safety margin and ensures the clutch won’t be the weak link if I decide to add more power later.
Finally, the flywheel is a critical part of the system. A lightweight flywheel reduces rotational mass, allowing the engine to rev up and down much quicker. This makes the car feel more responsive, but it can make smooth take-offs trickier and may cause more drivetrain noise. For a pure performance car, I love a light flywheel. For a daily driver, I often stick with a standard weight or a modestly lightened version to keep driveability high. Remember, when installing any new clutch, resurfacing or replacing the flywheel is non-negotiable for ensuring proper engagement and longevity. This 10 Best Action Clutch Review for Performance and Longevity is based on these core principles of material, pressure, and system balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the break-in period for a new performance clutch?
The break-in period is one of the most important steps for ensuring your clutch lasts. I always plan for about 500 miles of gentle, city-style driving. The goal is to gradually heat cycle the clutch disc and mating surfaces to bed them in properly. This means no hard launches, no high-RPM shifts, and definitely no slipping the clutch excessively. I just drive normally, shifting at lower RPMs and avoiding full-throttle applications. Skipping this step can lead to glazing the clutch disc, which causes slipping and a significant reduction in its lifespan.
Can I install a performance clutch without upgrading the flywheel?
You can, but I don’t recommend it. The flywheel and clutch work together as a matched system. A worn or heat-checked flywheel will not provide a smooth, flat surface for the new clutch disc to grip. This can lead to immediate chatter, premature wear, and even failure of the new clutch. For the best performance and longevity, I always have my flywheel resurfaced by a reputable machine shop or replace it with a new unit, especially if it’s a lightweight flywheel designed to work with the specific clutch kit.
Why is my new performance clutch so heavy to press?
A heavier pedal feel is a common trade-off with high-performance clutches. To hold more power, the pressure plate needs significantly more clamping force. This directly translates to more effort required to disengage it with your foot. While some of it is just something you get used to, you can sometimes mitigate it. I look into whether the manufacturer offers a different pressure plate with a slightly lower clamp load that still meets my torque needs. Also, ensuring the clutch hydraulics (master and slave cylinder) are in good condition and that the system is properly bled can help achieve the best possible pedal feel.
What causes clutch chatter and how can I fix it?
Clutch chatter is that jerking, shuddering feeling you get when engaging the clutch from a stop. It’s usually caused by an uneven friction surface between the disc and the flywheel. This can happen from improper break-in, an oil or fluid leak contaminating the disc, or a damaged disc damper spring. Some aggressive clutch materials, like certain ceramics, are just naturally more prone to chatter at low speeds. If you’re experiencing it with a new clutch, I first double-check that the break-in procedure was followed correctly. If it persists, the installation should be inspected for issues like a flywheel that wasn’t properly resurfaced or a misaligned disc.
How long should a performance clutch last?
This is a tough one because it depends entirely on how you drive. A high-quality performance clutch installed correctly and treated well can last 40,000, 60,000 miles, or even longer in a daily-driven car. However, if the car is frequently tracked, drag raced, or driven very hard, that lifespan can be considerably shorter. The way I drive has the single biggest impact. Avoiding “riding” the clutch pedal, not using the clutch to hold the car on hills, and shifting smoothly all contribute to a long service life. The findings from this 10 Best Action Clutch Review for Performance and Longevity show that proper selection and careful driving are key to durability.