Earlier today, I enjoyed talking with John Friese, and the subject
of clutches came up. Just for the record, I have one of John's
clutch systems in my Amphicar, and I am very satisfied.
Here are the relevant guide lines regarding original clutches versus
John's. Use John's under the following circumstances: (1) 1300 or
1500 engine, (2) your car is totally dry, and (3) never used in salt
water. Use original under the following circumstances: (1) 1147cc
engine (You can still use the Friese system if you wish.), (2) your
car leaks or you boat in "off shore" conditions, and (3) price is an
issue (although I feel John's is fairly priced for the features he
provides).
While you can use an original system in a 1300 or 1500 engine, it
was not designed for the additional power requirements. John's is
the correct system for these more powerful engines.
The dry car-water issue arises due to the different type of release
bearing used in the two systems. The original was carbon. It had
no moving ball bearings to rust or seize. John's system has a
superb roller bearing, which when dry is superior to the carbon
type. It's a little like a water "resistant" watch. An occasional
spray won't be a problem. However, get enough water in the bilge
and the flywheel will act like an old paddle wheel steamer, bathing
the roller bearing in a constant shower of water.
Another thing to remember is John's system is all new parts. Our
system is a rebuild. You should expect more consistency with all
new parts.
Hope this helps. We offer both the original and Friese system in
our parts program. Call, fax, or e-mail if you've got additional
points.
P.S. Don't forget (those of you who have bought the Friese system)
to send us your old clutch parts. You will be paid by us as
follows: 1-12-11 disc core = $25.00, 1-12-01 pressure plate core =
$25.00. This will reduce your cost by $50.00 and help ensure
original parts availability in the future.
Hugh
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