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Phoenix Friction Product Information

Here are some common questions about our products answered to help you shop.

How long will my new parts last?

A new OE replacement Phoenix Friction clutch will last as long as your original OE clutch as long as any related parts that are worn are replaced at the same time as well.  This isn’t guaranteed with towing or performance applications using OE replacements. Our upgraded stage kits are designed for heavy-duty users and upgraded engines. Learn more here. For our brake pads, we offer many long-lasting formulas designed to wear at least as long as OE pads. This even applies to those used under heavy-duty conditions. Our Fleet formulations are specifically made to last longer than OE.

What kind of warranty do you offer?

Our clutch kits and brake pads carry a limited warranty. OE replacement clutches and brake pads are warranted against defects for 12 months/12,000 miles. Clutch master and slave cylinders, flywheels, cables, and forks are warrantied against defects for 90 days. Upgraded clutch kits and brake pads for heavy-duty or racing use are warrantied against defects for a limited time. Read our full warranty policy here.

What's the difference between performance, HD upgrade, and OEM grade replacements?

The difference between OEM replacement and upgraded replacement generally comes down to your vehicle. This means if your vehicle has been modified and also how the vehicle is used. OE-spec clutches and brake pads are for unmodified vehicles used in a normal or typical manner. HD clutches and brake pads are upgraded for towing and hauling applications. Performance or extreme duty clutches and brake pads are made for modified vehicles that are raced either on the street or the track OE replacement parts are a quality option for stock vehicles. If you've got a vehicle that's modified - or you've got a truck that's doing a LOT of hauling or towing - you need more than an OE replacement.

Will you ship parts to my mechanic or my local repair shop?

Yes. We often ship replacement clutches and brake pads directly to mechanics and repair shops. Of course, our standard shipping policies apply.

Clutch Specific Product Questions

Do you test and balance each clutch kit?

Yes. We bench test every clutch kit we sell, and our testing process includes balancing.

Do I have to follow a break-in process when I install a new clutch?

Yes, a break-in period of 500 city miles should be followed for all clutches. Double the mileage if you do mostly highway driving. Kevlar clutches have an extended break-in period of 1,000+ miles. During this time, gear changes should be made at 4,000 RPM or less. Also, towing should be completely avoided until after this period. Generally avoid aggressive driving, high RPM downshifts, etc. 

What's included in a standard clutch kit?

Most of our clutch kits come with several components. These parts are needed direct replacement, or performance grade kits. In general, kits include:

  • Clutch Disc
  • Pressure Plate
  • Throwout Bearing
  • Clutch Alignment Tool

Some kits include more, some less. All kits have the disc and pressure plate. Please check the description of your specific kit for more details.

Do I need to replace the flywheel each time I replace the clutch? Can I turn or resurface it instead?

Most people choose to replace their flywheel when replacing the clutch. If your flywheel has over 100,000 miles on it, it’s best to replace. Applications with increased power, or towing applications may need replacement sooner. Finally, if your vehicle has a dual mass flywheel, replacement is almost always recommended.

Should I convert my dual mass flywheel to a single mass flywheel?

There are benefits to converting to a single mass flywheel. Single mass flywheels are:

  • Easier to machine
  • Less likely to need replacement at every clutch change
  • Lighter
  • Less expensive
  • Generally more reliable

You can learn more about dual mass to single mass flywheel conversions here.

Should I replace the hydraulics when I replace the clutch?

The master cylinder and slave cylinder are usually replaced during clutch replacement. This is especially true for internal concentric slave cylinders. We don’t include them in our kits, so it’s at your discretion; however, failure to replace the hydraulics will void your warranty if your problem is hydraulics related such as release related issues. On some of our late model Dodge solid flywheel conversion kits we include a pre-filled hydraulic system to allow for full release of the upgraded pressure plate.

What's the difference between kevlar, organic, heavy duty organic, ceramic, etc. etc. - help me understand?

The different materials allow for different uses. Instead of making a one-size-fits-all clutch, these give you choices. You can select your clutch based on your use and power band thanks to varying materials. Check out our new infographic here.

Is a performance clutch going to make my clutch pedal heavy and hard to operate (aka high effort)?

Performance clutch kits can definitely lead to a big increase in pedal effort. However, most of our kits do not dramatically increase pedal effort. We describe the change in pedal effort in the notes on the clutch kit, and if you'd like specs on the change in clutch pedal effort we're happy to oblige. Just give us a call.

What happens if I buy a performance clutch but I don't drive my vehicle hard enough to use it?

While staying within the recommended power range is for the best, it's much better to have a clutch that's over-rated than one which is under-rated. If you're not sure about your clutch selection, please give us a call.

Can I use a clutch or flywheel from a different model year on my vehicle? Can I swap out a clutch from one model to another?

Maybe. The best thing to do is call us. We know a lot about clutches, and we're happy to help you find the right clutch kit for your engine swap, custom mods, etc.

Brake Pad Specific Questions

Do I need to follow any specific "break-in" process after installing new brake pads?

It depends on the brake pads. Generally speaking, all of our brake pads are scorched to provide a quick and easy bed-in process.  Certain Performance and heavy-duty pads may  require an additional break-in process. If they do, the process will be carefully documented in the installation instructions we provide with the pads.

What happens if I don't properly bed-in my pads?

If you don't bed your pads the right away, it can substantially reduce brake pad life. It can also impact brake performance. While some brake pads do not require a strict bedding process, it's essential to follow the bedding instructions to the letter. That ensures your pads last as long as possible (and maximizes stopping power too).

Can I buy brake pads that are "dust-free," or at least a lot cleaner than the pads I'm using?

There is no such thing as a completely dustless pad. Due to the nature of pads, all emit some level of dust/debris. However, some pads are much better than others. All Phoenix Friction brake pads meet a low-dust standard.

Do I need to turn or resurface my brake rotors before replacing the pads?

Yes, due to the transfer of the previous brake pads friction material to the mating surface of the rotor. The old material is very unlikely to be the same as the new material and if not removed, can cause shudder and other braking issues. Having a clean braking surface is essential to the proper performance of a brake pad.

How will I know if my rotors need replacement?

If rotors are cracked, rusted, or have hard spots, it's time for replacement. Otherwise, it depends on the thickness of the rotors after resurfacing. Rotors must be measured and compared to their minimum thickness. Once they have fallen below this threshold, they must be replaced.

Will using aftermarket brake pads void my automotive warranty?

Under federal law, it is illegal for an automobile manufacturer to invalidate a vehicle warranty because a vehicle owner chooses to use an after-market replacement parts. This is also true of maintenance parts, like brake pads, oil filters, etc.

Do I have to change my front and back brake pads at the same time?

Not at all! In fact, most people don't. Front brake pads tend to wear at a faster rate. Therefore, front pads need replacement sooner. If the rears aren't worn, there's no need to change them.

Have a question that hasn't been answered? Please call or email us!