Stage 2+/stage 3 clutch options

Max Read

Max Read

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My clutch started slipping today, i'm currently at stage 1 but heading towards stage 2+ for sure in the future, potentially stage 3.

the feel of the clutch isn't a major issue to me as I'll get used to it after a while, just would like something that is reliable and can deal with that sort of power and will last.

anyone had any experience and preferences on which clutch to go for?

Is there any other beneficial mods worth doing whilst the car is in to have it fitted?
 
Sachs/ Helix/Spec. Do a little research on all 3.
 
If your going stage 3/hybrid then go for a spec stage 3+ proven reliability and is so easy to use it's almost like stock ,
When I had mine fitted I had the gearbox oil changed using a slighter thicker oil to try and protect the box a little more
 
kash_v said:
@Smirky what oil mate?
Click to expand...
Fuchs Titan Race SRG 75 Full Ester Synthetic Racing Gear Oil
Is what I used and was advised that's about as thick as could go without having issues changing gears when the oils cold etc
 
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Spec Stg3+

I had one of these running on my car for 4yrs and the last year at 540lbs with no problems until it finally began to slip after all that time and torque.

That's a pretty good testament from running it at its maximum rated torque.
 
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What sort of price do these go for? Also I've had a quick look online and can't see anyone in the uk that sells them?
 
Backdraft Motorsportused to sell them - I dont know of a UK stockist any more. Can be ordered in direct from Spec and with shipping and duty all in the Spec 3+ with a flywheel was about 1300
 
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Max Read said:
What sort of price do these go for? Also I've had a quick look online and can't see anyone in the uk that sells them?
Click to expand...

AMDTuning can also import and fit them.....thats where mine was done.
 
I have a Spec 2 + on my car , it has got better since its bedded in a bit , I still get the odd time when 4th gear can miss slightly but i am aware of it and now i don't miss it , I am having a braided clutch line and short shift with a full bust kit fitted tomorrow which should make it even better ,lots of people are getting Helix these days though tbh .
 
I'm heading to the garage tomorrow I've got AKS Tuning a few miles away so going to have them drive it to 100% clarify it is the clutch slipping. I'm 90% sure at the moment.

I think they have the helix kits but will have a chat tomorrow and see what the best option is suited for me.

What are the thoughts on short shifters? Is it a worthwhile mod?
 
I personally think the s3 has far too much play in the gear lever , i guess i will see tomorow if the short shift kit makes an improvement or not , might see you there .
 
agreed, much more play than previous car I've had. Let us know how you get on if not.
 
100% fit a short shifter with solid shifter metal bushings. Transforms it.
 
I have tried a helix and compared to the spec the pedal was like trying to compress an anvil. I wouldnt like it as a daily thats for sure.
 
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audi upgrades
If you're only going to stage 2+ then the Spec 2+ clutch & steel SMF is the best out there by far and rated to 450lbs, it would even do for stage 3 as that doesn't tend to see above 440lbs but to be safe and especially if stage 4 & beyond is on the cards, then go for a Spec 3+ clutch & steel SMF which is rated to 540lbs.
 
HHS3 said:
If you're only going to stage 2+ then the Spec 2+ clutch & steel SMF is the best out there by far and rated to 450lbs, it would even do for stage 3 as that doesn't tend to see above 440lbs but to be safe and especially if stage 4 & beyond is on the cards, then go for a Spec 3+ clutch & steel SMF which is rated to 540lbs.
Click to expand...

I can vouch for that one for sure....

It eventually started to slip at maximum torque after 4 years use,and all of that with peak torque above 440lbs,maxing out at 540lbs.
Never gave any problems with clutch disengagement etc,and feels like stock.
 
Wicked thanks for the replies guys! Stage 2+ is a defo. I'm just thinking of covering myself if I ever do get the temptation to go further.

Anyone tried helix kits? Thinking of reliability.
 
MICHAEL PARKER said:
I personally think the s3 has far too much play in the gear lever , i guess i will see tomorow if the short shift kit makes an improvement or not , might see you there .
Click to expand...
How is the short shifter going? Big difference?
 
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Max Read said:
How is the short shifter going? Big difference?
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Brilliant , I had the side one and all the bushes changed as well , so much more precise , the braided cable also helps loads , no slop anymore .
 
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Sachs clutch owner here. Copes well with Stage 2+ power but the clutch pedal is very heavy. I find hill starts and bumper to bumper traffic can get tiring real fast.
 
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My clutch has just started to slip alsoim wanting to go stage 2+ what clutch kit would you guys recommend and smf or dmf ?
 
I think I am going down the helix kit route from AKS going to go to stage 2+ as well and think they are good for 440lbs torque.

What stage are you currently?
 
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Just got revo intake and milltek cat back away to get down pipe and sports cat still on factory map mate are you going dmf
 
Are you jumping straight up to 2+ then, or stage 2 before? I'm not 100% sure yet going to have another chat with AKS when I go to book it in. I'm more after a clutch to definitely hold the power and last, over feel etc. A friend had a stage 3 or 4 clutch in his R33 GTR was a nightmare when first drove it but you will always get used to it after a while.
 
Just jumping straight to stage 2+ in the near future mate I had a glanza with a stage 3 paddle clutch haha nightmare in traffic I'm not wanting that feeling again to be honest
 
I've just went for the Clutchmasters Stage 6 clutch kit which is a 6 paddle clutch, uprated clutch cover and SMF. Currently only 400lbft but will be able to cope with more power when I get the itch again.
 
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I wouldn't be going near helix or sachs. The reason the pedal is heavy using those brands is due to strong pressure plates. There are a few cases of thrust bearings failing which could be related to uprated pressure plates. I would rather have a light pressure plate and either a 6 paddle organic/kevlar/ceramic sprung clutch plate or a full face sintered sprung clutch plate that would probably have a better pedal and less risk of potential thrust washer problems (however low that may be). There are also known issues with Sachs clutches and engagement at high RPM.

Spec 2+/3+ or the clutchmasters 6/8 paddle single plate with SMF are would have light pedal feel with good engagement and are big turbo capable clutches. 4 pucks are like switches. 6 puck and full face sintered you can slip it a bit or pop it and they are very controlled for launches and general fast road driving.
 
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The Spec 3+ is a full face carbon/metallic clutch and you can slip it much like an ordinary clutch without having to worry.

As S3_Mat says,paddle clutches in general are a PITA around town(I've used Helix clutches before on Cosworths) and the combination of grab,and switch like behaviour is just difficult at best.
 
@S3_Mat have you driven a s3 with helix/sachs and a smf/spec/clutchmasters?

Reason i ask is i will be in the same boat in a few months once mines mapped.
 
Following this thread, I'm interested in the Spec 2+ and Smf. Does anyone have a link to any site that sell or recommend someone here in the U.K. (AMDTuning)? Looking at a couple of US sites and even eBay they only offer for 06-09. It would be fine for a 61 Sportback ah?

Thanks in advance all
 
S3Alex said:
The Spec 3+ is a full face carbon/metallic clutch and you can slip it much like an ordinary clutch without having to worry.

As S3_Mat says,paddle clutches in general are a PITA around town(I've used Helix clutches before on Cosworths) and the combination of grab,and switch like behaviour is just difficult at best.
Click to expand...

What was your opinion on a helix clutch alex?
 
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I have a spec 3+ with a steel fly and ive tried the helix 4 puck with an smf and you can definately tell its an uprated clutch, heavy pedal with very short engagement and grabby when warm would be a nightmare in traffic. If you just got in my car and didnt know any better it would take a bit to realise the spec clutch isnt stock. Thats the beauty of it its light as a feather but takes a beating.
 
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@S3_Mat ah fair enough.

I was looking at the helix organic for mine, which is a full face disc and doesnt use the same pressure plate as the paddle clutch. Id love to try both spec and helix somehow lol as i do spend 70% driving time in traffic. I keep coming back to helix as its priced well and few tuners recommend it.
 
samuelh_888 said:
Following this thread, I'm interested in the Spec 2+ and Smf. Does anyone have a link to any site that sell or recommend someone here in the U.K. (AMDTuning)? Looking at a couple of US sites and even eBay they only offer for 06-09. It would be fine for a 61 Sportback ah?

Thanks in advance all
Click to expand...

Here's some more information on Spec clutches bud: http://www.audi-sport.net/xf/threads/best-spec-clutch-flywheel-offers-available.288600/

Garage Whifbitz are a UK supplier or AMDTuning can source for you. Drop Walter at Ultra Rev an email to specify what you want so he can confirm if they offer it for you as they're the cheapest supplier.
 
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Thanks @HHS3, I've emailed Walter and had a reply already!

A there any preference/recommendation for SMF - steel or aluminium?

Cheers
 
samuelh_888 said:
Thanks @HHS3, I've emailed Walter and had a reply already!

A there any preference/recommendation for SMF - steel or aluminium?

Cheers
Click to expand...

I chose steel.

Durability and strength over a small weight saving.

Mine lasted 5yrs in all.
 
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Aluminum rattles alot more too. Youtube it
 
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