2003 Hilux V6 Clutch

[philthylux]

After towing a medium sized trailer (about 1 ton total weight) over the weekend, the clutch has started to play up.

Clutch will hold the whole rev range in first and second, in 3rd and 4th it starts to slip at about 2500rpm and in fifth at about 2000rpm. This gives a top speed around 70, at the moment thou not an issue driving the 15 kms to work cos its thru sydney's cbd.

Currently the car (2003 dual cab 3.4 V6) has Susp 2" lift, air lockers front and rear, 31"s with factory 4.1 ratios. Eventually the plan will see the car get SAS and a supercharger, 35"s and 4.88 ratios.

I've had a mechanic drive it and he agrees that it is the clutch, now that I need to replace it, are there better/stonger/tougher clutches than factory replacement availible noting the above?

Secondly is there anything else that might be the cause of said troubles?

Cheers in advance, Phil

[RAY185]

I'd definately suggest going to a performance clutch rather than standard if you're planning on a supercharger etc. Something like an Exedy Safari Tuff would work well. As to what caused the slipping, I would suggest that its just its time. Towing heavy loads and general abuse like "riding" the clutch will cause excessive wear. The fact that its just slipping and not shuddering or rattling would suggest that it is normal wear rather than a premature failure of any part. An aftermarket clutch sometimes doesnt feel quite as nice as a factory clutch but its longevity and extra clamping force makes that an acceptable compromise. Make sure they machine your flywheel and replace the rear main seal while its apart.