codysoyland

My OEM clutch was replaced less than a year ago with a Competition Clutch kit, and the throwout bearing gave out last week, so I'm back to replacing it a second time. Competition only gave me a 90-day warranty - I'm not buying another Competition Clutch.

I'm facing the decision of whether to pony up the $800+ for a new OEM clutch or try another inexpensive aftermarket clutch. I've read several good reports on this website of the EXEDY Stage 1 kits, so I was considering that brand, but I really don't have any idea. Can anybody report on the reliability of them or any other aftermarket ones?

I do not need a performance upgrade beyond OEM. I drive hard but don't need racing-quality performance. The most important aspect is reliability and warranty. Any recommendations?

alnielsen

iTrader: (4)

If the throwout bearing went out, why are you replacing the clutch. Why not just replace the bearing? You've only got a years wear on the clutch.

codysoyland

I thought the same thing but my mechanic said he suspected damage to the clutch disc when I towed it in (he could smell a burnt disc) and advised me to replace the whole kit, as the labor alone is $500+. I will know more after they remove the transmission and look at it, but I'm most likely going to replace the whole kit.

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

If you are going to go through the trouble of pulling the tranny you might as well replace it. Just go with an OEM Exedy clutch kit.

codysoyland

Is there any reason to go with the Exedy OEM over their stage 1 kit? Amazon sells them for nearly the same price:

OEM:
Stage 1:

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

The stage 1 is unnecessary on a naturally aspirated RX-8. But if it's the same price

codysoyland

Thanks for the replies! I think I will go with the Exedy MZK1002 (OEM-class) part unless somebody convinces me not to.

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

I suggest talking too and buying from BHR. Charles can answer all your clutch related questions. Email him at charles@blackhaloracing.com

Sansone009

Hey whats up everyone so i had to get a reman engine mine lost all compression while the engine was out i get this email from the mazda dealership. . Anthony,

The engine is a factory reman. That means it is basically a new engine. All parts are new. The clutch on your vehicle shows heavy signs of wear and I recommend
That we put a new one in well your vehicle is apart. The cost of the parts need are as follows. clutch. $240.34. pressure plate $302.08. throwout bearing. $99.98
pilot bearing. $12.06. and seal $3.59. Please note in enclosed pics the cluch disc material that is worn. Please let us know asap so we can continue reassembly.
Does anyone else find the prices wayyyy overpriced i mean i can get an entire clutch kit for like 365$
please give me some responses on this one

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

Don't even mention it. I don't think there is anyone else with more clutch/flywheel related knowledge than you.

TeamRX8

iTrader: (25)

you can get an Exedy OEM replacement clutch for less than that amd it is basically the OEM clutch, it is also more than adequate for any NA RX8

southdakotadr8

I bought a inexpensive e-bay brand clutch ppc stage 1, 2200 miles later pressureplate blew off and fell out when we took the trany off cheap part ? or part defect

kevinande

There are many things that IMO should not be purchased from eBay. I can not quote a specific source, as I have seen it in several places including on the site. The quote reads "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten".

southdakotadr8

good quote, but I learned the hard way, don't buy cheap clutch kits,
spend at least 300.
learn from my mistake, I'm getting the exedy oem if it turns out I cant get a replacement from the factory due to my part defect claim.
guess I have to granny drive the 8 for another 1000 miles.
notice the flywheel contact side of the pressure plate blew off, as well as the heat damage created on the opposite side between the springs

04Green

iTrader: (1)

If the flywheel is mucked up, talk to charles about a light flywheel. Best mode I ever made.

southdakotadr8

That is my new light weight fly... all messed up

Aaron Ashley

Does anyone know if this clutch would be good? It seems to be the same as the exedy but cheaper (off eBay) and has a koyo bearing which I think is an upgrade. I did notice it seems to be missing the pilot bearing seal.

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/400931520420?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
Is this the same as this?

EXEDY OEM Replacement Clutch Kit - EXEDY Global Parts - Performance and OEM Clutches and Flywheels

I notice that the one straight from exedy is more expensive and it seems to also include the seal with the pilot bearing based on the picture.

would it also be advisable to order the koyo pilot bearing? And it doesnt seem to come with pilot bearing seal so that would also likely be needed?