Reply to "Pressure plate 3 finger long style"

> When I bolt up my pressure plate to the flywheel one of the three fingers sits
> about .125" lower than the others two and seems to be a little loose. Is this
> a problem? Can they be adjusted?

That is a problem and makes me think you have a rebuilt unit. I've seen
enough bad rebuilt units to always use a new performance pressure plate
in high performance applications.

> This is an area that has to be just right. Personally I would replace the 3
> finger plate with a diaphram plate. I bought on for a Mustang and had to send
> it back. Do yourself a favor and call a Vendor. How about PI? if your a member
> you get a discount. I got mine from Hall and had to get a new flywheel too
> because I now have a 10.5 where the original was 11 inch. $800 later, I have
> no clutch problems or worries!

I don't see the logic in having to purchase a flywheel so you can use a
clutch disc of smaller diameter. You can call Pantera Performance in
Colorado and they will have the proper 11" clutch disc and a Weber
Long style pressure plate that will work as well or better for less money.
The 10.5" clutch discs and diaphragm pressure plates are popular because
they came on later 5.0L Mustangs. If you need a lighter pedal, there are
centrifugal assist pressure plates like the Centerforce in the diaphragm style
which might make you want to switch flyheels (or have yours re-drilled).

> A Long clutch in a Pantera is the wrong clutch. Also like LPB states, the
> 10.5 disc is the right choice rather then the 11 inch.

I think you're mistaken about this. All Ford 351C's with manual transmissions
(and Boss 302's) came with 164 teeth flywheels fitted with a Long style
pressure plate and an 11" clutch disc. I'm told Panteras had the marcels
flattened but were otherwise stock Ford units. My 16K mile Pantera was this
way.

> It uses a diaphram, Bork&Beck type.

Diaphragm and Borg & Beck are two separate styles of pressure plates.

I suppose it's a matter of preference but I have cars with all three
styles of pressure plates and I prefer the 3 finger Long style. Be
aware that many diaphragm pressure plates have trouble shifting at high
RPM. There are high rev versions available if you know where to look.

Dan Jones