So I have a used Hays clutch from my old cammed L98/T5 combo. Rated about about 450 ft/lbs. It's "used", but I mean it's barely got 5000 miles on it. Loved it. Quick, linear engagement, silky smooth.

When I installed my 383/TKO combo, I purchased a Ram clutch rated at about 550 ft/lbs. Figured my torque somewhere around 450, and I had intentions of swapping the old L98/T5 into something, so a new slightly stronger clutch seemed smart. The new Ram clutch functions properly. That being said, it does feel slightly more grabby, and not quite as smooth. It's got about 500 miles so I'd consider it broken in.

Had to pull the trans to replace a throwout/pilot issue. Not sure, just doing both. ...it occured to me that I could use either clutch. Wear difference is negligible. And while both feel adequate, the Hays does feel smoother. BUT....it's rated right at about where my torque numbers are. Is that good enough or is the added strength of the RAM clutch a no brainer???

Thoughts?

Do you actually drive hard or just cruise around to shows?

The torque rating has a margin of safety. It won't slip just because you have a little more than 450 lb-ft torque. It will wear quicker the harder you push it though.

Did you mix and match clutches with the same flywheel?