Jdcrem00

I'm on my 2nd McLeod Street Pro clutch and it just went out. I've put 4k miles on this one and my last one only lasted 2k. When my last when went it literally exploded and busted the ring off my, also brand new, McLeod flywheel, along with the input shaft on the transmission. Needless to say, I replaced the clutch and flywheel along with getting a modern rebuilt TR3650, but did not replace the pilot due to not having a puller. Since the pilot has been bad I've heard chirping but about 1k or so miles ago I started hearing a throbbing like noise as well, both only occurring when my foot is off the clutch or when I press lightly on it. Clutch is now slipping like hell. In 5th gear it will be at a steady 2200 rpm an if I hit the gas it will go up to nearly 4k, then drop down to 2500 or so and actually bit. My question is, Could the pilot bearing have been what cause this? I've always heard good things of McLeod, but being through 2 of their clutch kits and 1 of their flywheels in less than a year and under 6k miles, I'm not so sure. I've also replaced the fork and cable when I had the first clutch installed. I'm also wondering about power, the clutch kit is rated at 400 hp and my car supposedly puts out 317. Any information would help, only 18 and don't know a whole lot, thanks!

wsherrard

Can't really comment on whether the pilot is ur issue but replacing them is a good idea. You really don't need a puller. Check Youtube for some tips and demos on popping them out. I used the grease method but there is even one where a guy used bread to do it! Check those clips on YouTube.

08'MustangDude

If the pilot bearing bushing drags or sticks can cause grinding gears during shifts and can lead to
misalignment of the clutch disc hub assembly. If the bushing or bearing locks up completely, it will
impossible to disengage the clutch. Some designs are a solid bushing, while others are a sealed
ball bearing or caged roller bearing.

The main killer of pilot bearings is the misalignment and/or mishandling of the transmission during
installation, be it after a clutch kit, or replacement transmission. The pilot bearing should be
replaced with a new clutch.

WJL

A worn pilot bearing can cause input shaft alignment issues and can/will wear out a clutch