I have an 06 2500 CTD with about 33k miles on it. Its used pretty much exclusively for hauling my Toy Hauler around. It's a big bumper pull at 28' and tall as well, so it has to work a bit. Scales say 12000 lbs empty. Add bikes and water and... should easily hit 14000, mebbe even 15000. I regularly see just 10 mpg come hill, dale, or flatland. Lately it's started to slip a bit when I get on the throttle to pass or accelerate onto the freeway, and I think my Smarty is killing what's left of the stock clutch now -- it runs on #5.

So now -- the question to all you more experienced folks -- I need to buy a clutch, but what kind. I intend to have the truck for the rest of its life. It's paid for, it's in awesome shape (well, all except the clutch I guess!), and I don't want to have to replace the clutch again for a while. The dyno I did while runnin Smarty #5 said 355 RWHP, and eventually I'll bump that up again as parts get replaced.

Many seem to think that Southbend is the way to go. Anyone out there that use their truck similar to the way I do and if so, what have you replaced your clutches with?

Thanks in advance for the advice guys!

 

I just installed a new clutch for my brother in-law last week and so far he loves it. He has 125h.p. edge on his truck and we put in a Valeo clutch kit w/ solid flywheel and upgraded hydaulics. So far it seems to be a good clutch and holding up great to the extra power, especially for the price.$700 for the kit.

 

Have you looked at the new DD that Valair has out? I am looking at clutches, both of the main companies - SB and Valair - have excellent aftermarket clutches. I have a friend who recently installed the new DD from Valiar, it is quiet, no jumping around when backing, and is really nice. After having a chance to drive his truck, both empty and towing, I think I am going to go with the Valair.


CD

 

Follow up:

So I decided to go with the Southbend dual clutch setup. I've got a trip with the trailer scheduled for next weekend, but the preliminary report is a moderate increase in pedal effort (stop n go traffic just got a lot less fun), a little more rattling in the engine, and it's a bit touch n go grabby in reverse.

 

Good choise!