Burning Clutch on 91LX
 

I've asked several people I know about this and have come up empty handed. Hopefully one of you will be able to better assist me. Approx. 4 months ago my stock clutch began to burn up and the throw out bearing began to squeal, so I replaced the clutch with a cheap AutoZone clutch. From the first time I started the car, the smell of burning clutch was there after every time the car was driven for approx 15-20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. I adjusted the pedal several times, and have taken it to the shop to have the master and slave clutch cylinders checked. The shop says that there is no problem with the master/slave cylinder and they didn't smell the clutch burning. I was wondering if it really is one of the cylinders, or even something else. The reason I ask is I hate this cheap clutch and am planning on taking it out and getting an ACT clutch. I should probably mention that I don't think I broke the clutch in properly. I abused it slightly at the beginning and progressively beat it more. I know it was the wrong thing to do but with all of that new found power the urge to use it got the best of me. Thanks for any input you may be able to give me. Also, if you know where to purchase an ACT clutch, let me know as well. I am having some trouble finding a reputable place online.

Jeremy
91LX

was the rear main seal replaced with the clutch change? could the 'burning smell' be a result of an oil leak there or perhaps somewhere else?...
hard to say over the 'net - maybe its just the cheap clutch like you think.
unless you're making serious power (and even if you are) you *might* want to stay away from ACT clutches - i've read about problems with them.
lots of good stuff on the forum - use the 'search' feature to find some more specific info on clutches, etc

No, I did not replace the rear main seal. I've heard bad things about a lot of clutches, but overall I hear nothing but good things about ACT. I am looking for a clutch that I can beat on seriously. This car is not my daily driver anymore so when I ride in it, it is for pleasure only. When it's driven, it's driven extremely hard. The smell really doesn't smell like oil at all. I know how that smells. My valve cover gasket leaked for 3 weeks before I decided I was tired of the smell.

Jeremy
91 LX

What bad things have u heard about act clutches?. ..Jon 93 lx

http://www.miataforum.com/ubb/ultima...c;f=1;t=014771

i shouldn't have said to neccessarily 'avoid' ACT clutches in my first post; as overall they do seem to have a good rep and are up the task - but that thread does bring some stuff up to be aware of...

good stuff........thanks......

it seems that most people took care of their clutch problem though, and were really happy afterwards.....

It looks like one out of the 10 or so posts didn't like the act clutch. I would say thats good. Anyone else hear anything on Act clutches? ...Jon 93 lx