joe-jitsu

Not sure if this is the right forum, but here goes.

6 months ago I felt the need for an uber awesome performance clutch(I know better now) So, I found myself a Centerforce Dual Fritchion clutch for $280 at protegegarage.com, I patiently waited three month through their horrible service(another thread) and alas it arrived.

I was in the DFW area and discovered Rotary Perfomance. There I had them put in new plugs, coils, braided brake lines and (despite their advice on Centerforce products) my cool new blaze orange clutch that can hold over twice the Torque of a Stock Rx8! The guys over at RP simply rock, and I reccommend them to everyone.

A few month go by and I finally finish the 600 mile break in period. Pedal is lighter than stock, clutch shifts easily. I never shifted above 6k, and ALL shifts were slow and steady. Smooth and steady granny shifting every time.

Break in period is done, so I push it a little harder. About a dozen quick shifts at redline, pedal to the floor each time. These shifts were not one after another. Clutch grabs awesome!

Two months ago I get a few grinds at 3rd and 4th(redline) So I cut that out quickly. Then I noticed it was starting to get very hard(at times damn near impossible) to go into reverse, or 1st from a standstill. Once I got over 5k the pedal became VERY stiff. Also a constant squeak squeak squeak when the pedal is out at idle.

I take it to Mazda and they tell me "your clutch is worn out we suggest the stock clutch kit which is $1200 and labor is about $650" I say "no thanks" and the service rep says "ok, we'll get it put back together for you" When I went to change my oil a week later I find 2 bolts missing from my cross member, and an odd looking 6 inch bolt stacked with washers holding my midpipe to my exhaust. Thanks Mazda!!!!!!!!!!!

I ordered an ACT clutch and had it installed this weekend at a local Tranny shop for $450. I had stopped by to see how things were going just as the mechanic was dropping the tranny. Here is what the pressure plate looked like removed:

The wire holding the weights broke, and a few of the weights found there way to the bottom of the bell housing, as well as a complementary razor blade. I wonder if Mazda had known about this..... Clutch had about 1k miles on it.

The ACT is working fine for the moment, now we wait to see what goes next!

Thought this might tickle your brains!