McLeod RST Clutch Concern/Question

[Wolff]

I purchased and istalled a McLoed RST clutch in September 2010. For the most part it has been great, but recently I've experienced (mainly when the car is still warming up) that it is sticking and tough to pull out of gear. I've heard that there were issues with this clutch, but never really paid much attention becasue I thought the problem occurred after I purchased mine, but now I'm not so sure. Can anyone advise?

Also, over the part year since the clutch has been in the car I've only put about 3000 miles on it. Any idea if McLeod has been standing behind replacement of the clutches?

Thanks!

[DiMora]

I purchased and istalled a McLoed RST clutch in September 2010. For the most part it has been great, but recently I've experienced (mainly when the car is still warming up) that it is sticking and tough to pull out of gear. I've heard that there were issues with this clutch, but never really paid much attention becasue I thought the problem occurred after I purchased mine, but now I'm not so sure. Can anyone advise?

Also, over the part year since the clutch has been in the car I've only put about 3000 miles on it. Any idea if McLeod has been standing behind replacement of the clutches?

Thanks!

Welcome to the "My McLeod isn't quite right" club.

Mine does it too, although VERY rarely...maybe three times in the year I've had it, so it is minor, but for the cost of the upgrade, I am disappointed - I want it perfect.

There are many theories as to why it does it - heat causing expansion and contraction outside of spec...heat in the clutch line...bad throwout bearings...improper shim thickness used in McLeod's assembly...who knows?

Yes, McLeod has an excellent warranty and stands behind the clutch itself, IE if you pull it and send it back they will machine your flywheel, replace the discs, spec everything to perfection, and reassemble it all marked up for you for proper installation - but you may still have the issue - as mine was fully gone-through by McLeod before installation - but you are still out your time and labor if you do it yourself, or out the $$$ to pay a shop to do it if you go that route - McLeod will not pay for shop labor.

So...what to do?

I'll be straight-up - when this clutch is gone - I'll be adding a new T56 Magnum transmission with a stock OEM Ford GT500 clutch setup.

If I was forced to keep this tranny forever, I would spend the extra money for the McLeod RXT...I have not read of anyone having issues with the RXT. Another potential "solution" might be to pull your RST, contact McLeod and tell them how disappointed you are with this POS and see if they will give you credit toward purchasing an RXT if you send back the RST.

FWIW I have the JPC braided stainless steel stainless clutch line and I run MOtul RBF600 fluid. I replaced my pilot bearing when the clutch was installed, and I kept my OEM TOB, as it had 20,000 on it and my tuner said it was "as new".

[Wolff]

Thanks for the reply Dimora...lot's of good ideas. I may do just what you suggested and try to trade up to the RXT if McLeod will make it worth my time and money. I like that idea a lot! By the way, I did the upgrade clutch line too.

[Warpony]

I purchased and istalled a McLoed RST clutch in September 2010. For the most part it has been great, but recently I've experienced (mainly when the car is still warming up) that it is sticking and tough to pull out of gear. I've heard that there were issues with this clutch, but never really paid much attention becasue I thought the problem occurred after I purchased mine, but now I'm not so sure. Can anyone advise?

Also, over the part year since the clutch has been in the car I've only put about 3000 miles on it. Any idea if McLeod has been standing behind replacement of the clutches?

Thanks!

I'm on my 3rd RST...to long & exhausting to go into. If I decide to keep my car (P51B), I will have to upgrade from the 3650 tranny and McLeod clutch.

Unfortunatly,these issues have distracted from the overall experience of a great and fun car.