1988-1993 Ram Diesel Clutch Kit Options

From 1998 through 1993, Dodge truck buyers could get the Cummins Turbo diesel in two trucks - the D-Series (RWD only) and the W-Series (4WD). The clutch options are based on:

• Both D and W series trucks equipped with a diesel and a manual transmission featured a heavy 13” cast iron clutch as standard equipment.
• Aftermarket clutch manufactures offer a lighter version of the OEM flywheel in a 12-1/4” size. This lighter flywheel bolts in where the 13" heavy unit does without modification. It can also handle the same torque as the 13” clutch.
• We carry both size clutches in the original equipment kits. However, we only offer the 12-1/4” clutches in most upgrade kits because the aftermarket clutches allow for more flexibility.

Depending on your intended use, this information should help you understand why there’s two different sized clutches for this year range.

NOTE: What follows is a detailed explanation of the kit/material types. Since this is complex, please give us a call if you’re left with usage questions before ordering. We want to make sure you get the correct clutch kit before ordering.

Which is Better: Organic vs Ceramic vs Kevlar

The material is largely responsible for performance capacity. For this year range, we have the OE kits, and then three different other kinds. The other material options are:

Woven Organic, this is great for “normal” duty trucks. Woven organic is also ideal for mildly modified trucks.

Ceramic, this material is recommended for heavily modified trucks, or those which tow heavy loads. Ceramic clutches are for extreme use.

Kevlar, which is a largely comparable clutch to both above materials. This is a great clutch for prolonged clutch life.

OE Replacement Clutch Kits

05-053 Clutch Kit OE Replacement 13"

Recommended Use:

• Trucks without performance upgrades and those towing less than 10,000 pounds. It minimizes pulsations through the drivetrain due to the heavy cast iron pressure plate

05-073 Clutch Kit OE Replacement 12-1/4"

Recommended Use:

• This clutch is ideal if no performance modifications are made to the truck
• Best towing loads of 12,000 pounds or less
• The much lighter LuK style clutch offers quicker shifting

Woven Organic Disc Clutch Kits

Woven organic material is a great choice for smooth engagement. These clutch discs are made from metal fibers woven into organic fiber. Kits with this kind of clutch offer more torque capacity than stock. The increased capacity comes from the high clamp load pressure plate.

Recommended Use:

• Daily Driver
• Hauling/Towing on Asphalt or Pavement

05-073 Organic, Engine Torque Capacity = 450 lb.ft. TQ/235HP

05-073.3 Organic, Engine Torque Capacity = 615 lb.ft. TQ/325HP

Ceramic Disc Clutch Kits

Ceramic clutch discs are made from a mixture of materials. These materials are: Copper, iron, tin bronze, silicon dioxide, and/or graphite. The discs have extreme heat resistance. After broken in, they will have a short slip period when engaged. The ceramic buttons make them good for off-road trucks. Our ceramic button discs are made to stop chatter. These are best used under normal engagement.

Recommended Use:

• Light Racing
• Full-Time Snow Plows
• Construction Sites
• Forestry/Logging
• Farming

05-053.3C 13” Ceramic, Engine Torque Capacity = 625 lb.ft., TQ/330HP

05-073.3C Ceramic, Engine Torque Capacity = 625 lb.ft. TQ/330HP
05-073.4C Ceramic, Engine Torque Capacity = 850 lb.ft. TQ/450HP

Kevlar Disc Clutch Kits

Kevlar clutch discs are constructed with para-aramid fibers. These kinds of clutches are made for longevity and smoothness during engagement. They offer a low static-to-dynamic co-efficient for smooth engagement. Their durability is also stellar. The kevlar discs have a longer break-in period than others due to it being made from a much longer lasting material.

Recommended Use:

• Light/Moderate Towing
• Off-Roading Driving
• Rock Crawling

05-073.2K Kevlar, Engine Torque Capacity = 515 lb.ft. TQ/265HP

If you’re not sure about your power levels, check out this easy guide. Also, contact us with any technical questions. Buy your new clutch kit from Phoenix Friction now.