8.5" Clutch

[2cams70]

The flat type thrust bearing must be used with the pressure plate that has a flat thrust plate
The round nose type bearing must be used with the pressure plate that doesn't have a thrust plate.

There are a number of variations of bearing, bearing spacer, and pressure plate and you need to be careful.

Be aware that bigger is not necessarily better when it comes to plates. The bigger the plate the more the inertia and the harder the synchronizers have to work. If you like a quick, smooth and light gearshift less inertia in the plate helps. The 4 speed was always 8" as standard. The 5 speed was always 8.5" (I believe but not an expert). These days the replacement plates seem to be mostly 8.5" for either box.

[tonyabacus]

2cams, it is because of the number of different options now available that I posed the questions. I have had conflicting information from different sources and most of the motor factors whilst able to supply a clutch or clutch assembly are not very well informed on cars such as ours.

Most members of course are more likely to use the suppliers such as Sue Miller, Paul Matty and others, but for those people having their first Lotus experience it can be a little confusing. Also you make an interesting reply about most supplies these days are 8 1/2 “. But now there is some clearer information regarding which plates and thrust bearings go together.

Thanks to all who responded
Tony