A legendary sport car in the automotive world, the Honda S2000, has received high praise for its striking blend of speed, handling, and overall reliability. One fundamental piece of the performance puzzle lies in the clutch system, a crucial connection between the F-Series engine's raw power and the car's rear wheels. In this comprehensive guide, we will review some of the best clutches designed specifically for the Honda S2000, covering everything from explanation of the a clutch to in-depth reviews of top-performing clutches on the market today. If your Honda S2000 is in need of a clutch or you just want to upgrade as you add more power to your S2k then this guide is meant for you!
At its core, a clutch is a mechanical device that couples two rotating shafts, allowing the transmission of power between them. In automotive terms, it connects the engine, which generates power, and the transmission, which distributes this power to the wheels. The choice of a clutch, encompassing its quality and type, can have a significant impact on the performance, drivability, and overall reliability of a vehicle.
Choosing the ideal clutch for your Honda S2000 isn't an indiscriminate, one-size-fits-all choice. It hinges on several critical variables, such as your driving style, the power your S2000 puts down, the type of materials the clutch is made of, and a balance between performance and drivability that you desire.
For example, running a triple disk unsprung clutch may be ideal for a S2k that is rarely driven on the street would be a nightmare due to the hassle that that specific type of clutch would present in a street car. On the other hand, a OEM replacement clutch on a highly modified S2000 that frequents the track wouldn’t last very long during a track day due to the stress being exerted on it which would ultimately make it fail prematurely and end you track day relatively quickly.
When it comes to choosing the best type of clutch for you Honda S2000, sorting through all of the clutches available can be a bit overwhelming for first time buyers. The wide array of clutch types each offer distinct characteristics that cater to specific driving needs and conditions. Organic clutches, for instance, are a go-to for everyday driving, while ceramic and multi-plate clutches are specially engineered for more strenuous applications, such as racing or high horsepower applications.
Amidst a market awash with plethora of clutch options, making an informed decision can seem challenging. But don’t worry, thats specifically why we’ve written this guide!
To help aid you in your quest for the perfect clutch, we’ve reviewed some of the most popular clutches and have selected a a variety of some top-performing options with a focus on where you drive you Honda S2000 and if you’ve gone well beyond stock horsepower levels or not. Check out our list of clutches for daily driven relative low horsepower Honda S2000s as well as our list of clutches for high horsepower or track focused S2Ks.
Whether you enjoy driving your S2000 to and from work everyday, have a weekend cruiser with a bit of boost under the hood or bought your S2k specifically for track duty, our comprehensive list below will have something that fits your needs!
Advanced Clutch Technology's High-Performance Street Sprung Clutch Kit is designed to significantly improve the driveability and performance of your S2000. Its high torque capacity comes from the use of specially engineered diaphragm springs that provide excellent engagement and high heat tolerance. This kit is excellent for aggressive street and light track use, providing smooth engagement thanks to its spring-centered disc.
The Competition Clutch Stage 2 Clutch Kit is ideal for street and track applications. It's designed for the Honda S2000 drivers who demand higher performance and increased holding capacity. It features a sprung hub, and a Brass Plus disc that provides smoother engagement and reduced driveline shock, while the increased clamp load is supplied by the performance pressure plate.
The Stage 2 Kevlar Clutch Kit from Action Clutch is a great option for drivers looking to improve performance. The clutch kit is engineered to provide higher torque capacity and superior heat dissipation thanks to the use of a Kevlar friction material. It's perfect for aggressive street driving and moderate track use. The kit includes a heavy-duty pressure plate, a sprung hub disc, and an alignment tool.
McLeod's Supremacy ST Clutch Kit is designed for Honda S2000 drivers who need increased holding power while retaining excellent drivability. The organic-lined disc and high clamp load pressure plate provide a moderate increase in power capacity, while still offering smooth engagement for an improved driving experience. This clutch is well-suited for mild performance upgrades and spirited street driving.
The FX100 Clutch Kit by Clutch Masters is designed to be a reliable upgrade for your S2000. It is a complete clutch kit that includes a heavy-duty pressure plate, a sprung hub, an organic friction disc, an alignment tool, and all necessary replacement bearings. The clutch provides increased torque capacity while maintaining a soft pedal feel for comfortable daily driving.
The SPEC Stage 2+ Clutch Kit offers great torque capacity increase and is perfect for moderate street and occasional track use. The kit includes a high clamp pressure plate, a multi-friction disc with a high-performance organic material on one side, and a carbon semi-metallic material on the other, providing a smooth engagement and a long service life.
The XClutch Stage 2 Single Cushioned Ceramic Clutch Kit is designed for street and race applications where high horsepower and torque are factors. The clutch features a sprung hub for comfortable engagement and reduced driveline shock, and the ceramic friction material provides excellent heat resistance and rapid heat dissipation. This clutch kit offers superior performance under extreme conditions and is great for owners who occasional track their S2k.
Exedy, one of the largest original equipment manufacturers, offers the OE Clutch Kit for Honda S2000 drivers who need a direct replacement with the quality and reliability of original equipment. It's perfect for stock cars or those with mild power increases. The clutch kit comes complete with a clutch disc, pressure plate, and a release bearing, offering smooth and precise operation, longevity, and an overall balanced drive.
The Action Clutch Twin Disc Race Kit is designed for vehicles operating under extreme racing conditions. With high torque capacity and superior heat dissipation capabilities, this clutch kit offers exceptional durability and performance. Its twin-disc design offers maximum power transfer from the engine to the wheels, ensuring maximum acceleration and overall performance on the race track.
The XClutch Twin Solid Ceramic Clutch Kit is known for its robust construction and durability. Built with solid ceramic components, it offers excellent heat resistance and longevity. The twin-disc design ensures high torque capacity, making this clutch kit ideal for high-performance applications, whether on the track or for spirited driving on the street.
Engineered with a focus on versatility, the Clutch Masters Twin Disc Clutch Kit is suitable for both street and race applications. It delivers superior holding power due to its twin-disc design, while maintaining overall performance and drivability. The high torque capacity of this clutch kit allows it to handle high-performance driving conditions with ease on both the street and track.
The Competition Clutch Twin Disc Ceramic Clutch Kit strikes a perfect balance between performance and affordability. Its twin-disc ceramic construction ensures high torque capacity and excellent heat resistance. This design results in increased performance, longevity, and consistent engagement, making it a great choice for both street and track driven Honda S2000s.
The Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is designed for those wanting a performance upgrade without opting for a twin-disc setup. It offers significant improvements in torque capacity and durability while maintaining a lightweight profile. This clutch is an excellent choice for drivers looking for the perfect balance between street drivability and performance at the race track.
The McLeod Mag Force Clutch Kit is known for its exceptional reliability and superior holding capacity. This clutch kit stands out for its excellent heat dissipation, making it a solid choice for high-horsepower Honda S2000s. It offers a great balance of durability and performance, whether used for daily driving or high performance track days..
The OS Giken Twin Plate Clutch is a testament to the brand's commitment to superior craftsmanship and durability. Its twin-plate design offers a high torque capacity, making it an excellent choice for high horsepower or track oriented builds. This clutch is known for its smooth engagement, making it a reliable choice for highly modified S2Ks without compromising on comfort and drivability.
SPEC's Mini Twin R-Trim Clutch Kit was designed with a strong focus on durability and superior performance. Its design provides an ideal balance between a performance upgrade and everyday drivability. This clutch kit is suited for a wide range of applications, from daily driving to competitive racing, making it a versatile and reliable choice for your Honda S2000.
The installation of a new clutch is a critical process that requires a decision: the DIY approach or professional service. If you're proficient with tools and have some fundamental mechanical knowledge, a DIY clutch installation might be for you.
Routine checks and servicing of your clutch will ensure it performs optimally for longer. This could include checking the clutch fluid levels and replacing them when necessary, ensuring the clutch cable is correctly adjusted, and regularly inspecting your transmission for signs of wear and tear.
Recognizing potential issues with your clutch early can prevent more extensive damage. Symptoms of a failing clutch may include a slipping clutch, difficulty changing gears, unusual noises when the clutch is used, or a sticky clutch pedal.
Knowing how to troubleshoot clutch problems can save you both time and money. Some solutions may include adjusting or replacing the clutch cable, replacing worn-out clutch components, or in severe cases, replacing both the clutch and flywheel to ensure everything is fixed.
The finding the perfect clutch for your Honda S2000 is a big step when it comes to improving its performance and tailoring it to your driving style. This guide was created to provide a comprehensive, in-depth review of the top clutches available, while duly considering different driving styles, power levels, and budgets.
We trust that this guide has provided you with valuable insights and practical knowledge to help make an informed choice that aligns with how your drive your Honda and what you expect when purchasing a new clutch.
We appreciate your time and interest in exploring the world of Honda S2000 clutches with us. At OverRev, we are committed to equipping Honda S2000 enthusiasts like you with the best possible information, helping you upgrade and improve your Honda S2000's performance.
We invite you to explore our other Honda S2000-focused content, where we dive deeper into various aspects of this iconic car, from performance modifications to maintenance tips. Thank you once again for reading, and we hope to continue being your trusted partner as you upgrade and improve your Honda S2000!
While a clutch itself doesn't increase horsepower, a high-performance clutch can better handle increased horsepower from other modifications.
The lifespan of a clutch varies based on driving style and conditions. However, a clutch should typically last between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.
Symptoms can include a slipping clutch, difficulty changing gears, unusual noises when the clutch is used, or a sticky clutch pedal.
If you're handy with tools and have some mechanical knowledge, you could replace the clutch yourself. However, hiring a professional is recommended if you're unsure, as incorrect installation can lead to further issues.
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