When it comes to extracting every last bit of performance from your engine, the clutch is a critical component that cannot be overlooked. A high-performance clutch ensures that power is transferred efficiently from the engine to the transmission, providing the robust engagement and durability needed for aggressive driving. Whether you’re pushing the limits on a track day or simply demand more from your daily driver, the right clutch kit makes all the difference.
Action Clutch has built a strong reputation for manufacturing clutches that offer a perfect balance of performance, drivability, and reliability. This roundup focuses on their offerings and a few alternatives, highlighting kits designed for various power levels and driving styles. From heavy-duty stage 4 setups to more streetable stage 1 options, we will help you identify the ideal clutch for your vehicle’s needs.
Top Action Clutch Kits for Performance and Reliability
- Action Clutch Performance Heavy Duty Stage 4 Complete Clutch Kit
- Action Clutch Stage 3 Clutch Kit for Honda Civic SI 2006-2011
- Action Clutch Stage 3 Kit with Lightened Flywheel for Honda
- Action Clutch Performance Heavy Duty Stage 1 Complete Clutch Kit
- Action Clutch OEM Factory Flywheel for Honda Civic SI 2012-2015
- EXEDY FJK1004 OEM Replacement Clutch Kit
- ACT SB5-HDG6 Race Sprung 6-Pad Clutch Kit
- EFT STAGE 3 CLUTCH KIT+CHROMOLY FLYWHEEL for 3000GT VR4
- Competition Clutch Stage 4 6-Puck Ceramic Clutch Kit
Action Clutch Performance Heavy Duty Stage 4 Complete Clutch Kit Set
Engineered for serious power, the Action Clutch Stage 4 kit is built to handle up to 360 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This makes it an excellent choice for heavily modified vehicles used in off-road, track, or high-performance street scenarios. The kit features a rigid 6-puck ceramic disc from MIBA, known for its aggressive grip and high heat tolerance, paired with a heavy-duty pressure plate for maximum clamp force.
Every component in this kit is designed, assembled, and tested in the United States to ensure top-tier quality and reliability. It includes a premium throwout bearing, pilot bearing, and a clutch alignment tool for a straightforward installation process. This setup is intended for drivers who need extreme holding power, though its rigid disc design means it is best suited for minimal daily use.
Action Clutch Stage 3 Clutch Kit
Offering a balance between high performance and improved drivability, the Stage 3 kit is rated for 354 HP and 318 lb-ft of torque. Its key differentiator is the use of a sprung 6-puck ceramic disc, which helps dampen drivetrain shock and makes it more manageable for moderate daily driving compared to a rigid disc. This makes it a versatile option for track use and spirited street driving.
Like all Action Clutch products, this kit is manufactured with precision in the USA. The inclusion of a heavy-duty single diaphragm pressure plate and premium bearings ensures consistent performance and longevity. For drivers with modified K-series engines seeking a clutch that can handle frequent performance use without being overly harsh, this Stage 3 kit presents a compelling solution.
Action Clutch Performance Heavy Duty Stage 3 Complete Clutch Kit Set with Lightened Flywheel
This comprehensive Stage 3 kit takes performance a step further by including a lightened flywheel. With a capacity of 395 HP and 338 lb-ft of torque, it is well-suited for high-output K24 applications found in the 2012-2015 Civic Si and related Accords. The lightened flywheel reduces rotational mass, resulting in quicker engine revving and improved throttle response.
The kit utilizes a sprung 6-puck ceramic disc for a good blend of aggressive engagement and street manners. This complete set provides everything needed for a clutch replacement, including the flywheel, pressure plate, disc, and all necessary installation components. It is an ideal upgrade for drivers looking to enhance their vehicle’s performance character across both track and street environments.
Action Clutch Performance Heavy Duty Stage 1 Complete Clutch Kit Set
For those seeking a reliable performance upgrade that maintains excellent daily driveability, the Stage 1 kit is an outstanding choice. Rated for 289 HP and 255 lb-ft of torque, it uses a full-face sprung organic disc that provides smooth, predictable engagement similar to an OEM clutch but with increased holding capacity. This makes it ideal for performance driving, everyday use, and even mild towing.
This kit also includes a lightened flywheel to improve engine response without compromising low-speed smoothness. The organic disc material offers a quiet operation and a comfortable pedal feel, making it a perfect solution for a daily-driven vehicle that sees occasional performance use or has been moderately modified.
Action Clutch OEM Factory Flywheel Honda Civic SI
Sometimes, a performance clutch installation requires a new, high-quality flywheel. Action Clutch’s OE-HD flywheel is designed as a direct, plug-and-play replacement for the factory component in the 2012-2015 Honda Civic Si. Manufactured from top-grade materials, it ensures durability and longevity, matching the stock specifications for a hassle-free installation.
This flywheel is not just a simple replacement; it is built to provide optimal performance with smoother engagement and reliable operation. It is the perfect companion to any clutch kit when your existing flywheel needs replacement, ensuring the entire clutch assembly functions as intended for years to come.
EXEDY FJK1004 OEM Replacement Clutch Kit
As a leading supplier to major vehicle manufacturers, Exedy is synonymous with OEM-level quality and reliability. The FJK1004 kit is a vehicle-specific replacement that restores your vehicle’s clutch system to its original performance and feel. It is an excellent option for drivers who are not seeking increased performance but require a dependable, long-lasting clutch for daily driving.
The kit includes a clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing, all manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment standards. If your priority is a quiet, smooth, and reliable clutch that replicates the factory experience, this Exedy kit is a trusted and proven choice.
ACT SB5-HDG6 Race Sprung 6-Pad Clutch Kit
Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT) is another respected name in performance drivetrains. The SB5-HDG6 kit features a sprung 6-pad disc with premium ceramic friction material, designed for low wear rates and high heat tolerance. A key benefit of this kit is ACT’s exclusive diaphragm spring design, which provides a low to moderate pedal feel while offering aggressive engagement and extended clutch life.
This kit is engineered for race and high-performance street applications where durability and consistent performance under heat are paramount. It represents a strong alternative for drivers who value a manageable pedal effort without sacrificing holding power and thermal capacity.
EFT STAGE 3 CLUTCH KIT+CHROMOLY FLYWHEEL
For owners of Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 and Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo models, the EFT Stage 3 kit offers a complete solution. This package includes both a stage 3 clutch kit and a chromoly flywheel, engineered to match the specific performance characteristics of these powerful 3.0L twin-turbo engines. The chromoly flywheel is both strong and lightweight, contributing to improved engine response.
EFORTISSIMO stands behind this kit with robust technical support and a strong warranty of 12 months or 12,000 miles. This combination of performance-matched components and manufacturer backing makes it a reliable upgrade path for these classic Japanese performance cars.
Competition Clutch Stage 4 6-Puck Ceramic Clutch Kit
Competition Clutch is known for its race-bred components, and this Stage 4 kit is built for high-horsepower applications demanding extreme durability. The 6-puck ceramic disc is designed to provide an aggressive bite and withstand the high temperatures generated during intense use, such as drag racing or road course events.
This kit is for the serious enthusiast whose vehicle generates power levels that exceed the capacity of street-oriented performance clutches. While engagement can be abrupt, the holding power and heat resistance are top priorities, making it a tool for competitive motorsport environments.
What to Look For in a High-Performance Action Clutch
So, you’re thinking about upgrading your ride with a new action clutch. It’s a solid move, whether you’re building a track monster or just want a more responsive feel on your daily driver. But with so many options out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. I’ve been through this process a few times, and I can tell you that focusing on a few key areas makes all the difference. Let’s break down what really matters when you’re hunting for a clutch that offers both high performance and serious durability.
First up, let’s talk about the clutch disc material. This is the heart of the engagement. For street-driven cars that see occasional hard use, a Kevlar or organic disc is a fantastic choice. It’s forgiving, provides a smooth engagement similar to your stock clutch, and is generally easy on your flywheel. If you’re pushing more power or planning on hitting the drag strip frequently, a ceramic or sintered iron disc is the way to go. These materials can handle and transfer a ton of heat and power, but they come with a trade-off: a much more aggressive, on/off engagement that can be a pain in stop-and-go traffic. For the ultimate in performance, many racers opt for a multi-plate setup, but that’s serious overkill for most street applications.
Next, consider the pressure plate. This is what clamps the disc to the flywheel. The clamp load is crucial. A higher clamp load prevents slippage under high torque, which is exactly what you need for performance. This is often where you’ll see terms like “performance” or “heavy-duty” pressure plates. They require a bit more leg muscle to operate, but that extra pressure is what keeps your clutch from turning into a smoke machine during a hard pull. For a balanced setup, many of the best kits use a diaphragm-style pressure plate that offers a good increase in clamp force without making the pedal unbearably heavy.
Finally, think about the complete system. Are you just replacing a worn-out disc, or is this part of a bigger power upgrade? If you’re adding significant horsepower, you need a clutch kit rated for that new power level. Don’t cheap out and get a kit that just meets your current numbers; give yourself some headroom. Also, this is the perfect time to resurface or replace your flywheel. A mismatched or warped flywheel will ruin a brand new clutch in no time. And while you’re in there, don’t forget a new throwout bearing and pilot bearing—these are cheap insurance against having to drop the transmission again prematurely. Getting the right components for your specific goals is the key to a successful 9 Best Action Clutch Review for High Performance and Durability.
FAQ
How long does a performance action clutch typically last?
There’s no single answer, as clutch life depends entirely on how you drive and the type of clutch you choose. A performance-oriented organic or Kevlar clutch, when driven responsibly on the street, can easily last 40,000 to 60,000 miles. More aggressive ceramic or sintered iron clutches, while stronger, often have a shorter service life because the harder friction material is more abrasive to the flywheel and pressure plate. If you do a lot of track days or hard launches, expect that lifespan to decrease significantly regardless of the material. The driver is the biggest variable in the equation.
Will a high-performance clutch make my daily driver harder to drive?
It can, and this is a very common trade-off. Performance clutches are designed for grip, not comfort. A clutch with a higher clamp force pressure plate will have a noticeably heavier pedal feel. Similarly, a puck-style disc (like a 6-puck) will have a very grabby, on/off engagement point that makes smooth take-offs in traffic a skill to master. For a daily driver, I strongly recommend sticking with a full-face organic or Kevlar disc paired with a performance pressure plate. This setup gives you a major upgrade in holding power while maintaining a relatively civilized driving experience.
Do I need to upgrade my flywheel when I install a new action clutch?
It is highly, highly recommended. At a minimum, your existing flywheel must be resurfaced by a qualified machine shop. You cannot just bolt a new clutch to an old, worn, or heat-damaged flywheel; it will lead to premature failure and shuddering. For the best results and performance, upgrading to a new, lighter flywheel is a great idea. A lightweight flywheel reduces rotational mass, which allows your engine to rev up and down more quickly. This improves throttle response, making the car feel more lively. Just be aware that a very light flywheel can make it slightly easier to stall the engine at low RPMs.
What is the difference between a “stage” 1, 2, and 3 clutch?
“Stages” are marketing terms, not a universal standard, so their meaning can vary between manufacturers. Generally, Stage 1 is for mild power increases and offers a near-stock driving feel. Stage 2 is for more significant power upgrades and often features a stronger pressure plate and a more aggressive disc material, resulting in a heavier pedal and sharper engagement. Stage 3 is typically for high-horsepower, forced-induction builds or dedicated race cars and might use a multi-plate or extreme-duty single-plate design with a very stiff pedal. Always look at the specific torque capacity of the clutch, not just its “stage,” to see if it matches your engine’s output.
Can I install a performance clutch myself, or should I hire a professional?
This is a job that requires significant mechanical skill, the right tools, and a lot of time. You need to safely support the vehicle, remove the transmission, separate the old clutch, and install the new one with precise alignment. Mistakes during installation, like not centering the disc perfectly or getting grease on the friction surface, will ruin the new components immediately. If you are an experienced shadetree mechanic with a good jack, jack stands, and transmission jack, it’s a challenging but doable project. For most people, paying a professional mechanic is the safer and more reliable option to ensure your 9 Best Action Clutch Review for High Performance and Durability ends with a properly functioning car.