04AZUREBLUEMACH1

I've only driven this car 6,000 miles (no racing, just street) and I think the clutch is acting up... When I'm cruising at around 40mph in 5th gear, if I floor it, the revs jump really high and no power goes to the wheels; it's like the car is in Neutral. I was told by other Mustang enthusiasts that this is a sign of the clutch getting ready to go out.

Does this sound correct? If I do get my clutch replaced (it's under warranty), is there a better clutch from FRPP that I should pay to have installed?

A buddy who works for Ford nearby told me not to mention my tune to them... I agree, as I don't see why they'd want to read or flash the computer while diagnosing the clutch, but who knows. What are your experiences with warranty claims and modifications? I'm not sure if they could realistically say that my pulley/CAI/tune caused my clutch failure unless they're going to accuse me of racing.

As always, thanks.

kevinmalec

There are a couple of different ways to check if your clutch is slipping. Take the car for a drive. See if it takes more RPMs from the engine to achieve the right speed. This can also be an indicator your car needs a clutch replacement. While driving down the road in 2nd gear, put the car in 3rd or 4th gear then let out the clutch. If the RPMs of the engine go up, but the speed of the vehicle does not, it is time to replace the clutch.

Another way to establish if your clutch needs repair is to test it in a parking lot. With it stopped but running, put the car in 2nd or 3rd gear and let out the clutch. If it does not stall, but the RPMs go up and the vehicle does not move, the clutch is bad and needs to be replaced.

http://www.ehow.com/how_7687_diagnos...ng-clutch.html

My Slave cylinder/Throwout bearing went out at 65K miles. I had a 2-3 inch dead spot at the top of the clutch pedal and I could barely put my gear shifter into any gear.

moosestang

The previous owner could have had it at the track every weekend launching on slicks!

Is your car stock? If the revs increase and the mph don't, then that's a sure sign that the clutch is slipping.

aaquib1992

I remember reading somewhere about a very common clutch TSB for the GT500s, if you're not familiar with it you might want to read up on that before you take it in.

It doesn't sound like you have the symptoms of that TSB problem, but better safe than sorry. Here's a link to the TSB.

Andy13186

do the gt500's have a hydraulic or cable clutch?

kevinmalec

I'm pretty sure the GT500 has a hydraulic clutch.....

Roy_R

Pretty sure your clutch is toast...and that TSB above doesn't apply, cause it's for the clutch engaging when depressed.

Take it in, tune shouldn't be an issue, but you never know these days.

GrayPony

Why are you doing 40mph in 5th? With a small SC pulley and the added torque, lugging the engine like will take it's toll on the clutch. The clutch is "wear and tear" and not warranty.

moosestang

They aren't likely to cover a worn out clutch.

modru2004

lol what.
40 mph in 5th isn't lugging the engine.

but ya clutches aren't warranty items.

however if you have a service plan wear and tear items are included, yes this means the clutch as well except for tires. tires are the only thing thats not included.