Clutch Size?

[elks]

So I went to get a kit for my 72 blazer. On line and at the store they list a couple different options. 11" or 12". I am not sure which I would have... I believe it is still stock. It has the 350 with the 465 4 speed tranny. I am not sure but I remember it being the 11" with the 10 spline center. Does this sound right?

If so should I try and up grade to the 12" as it would be stronger? The size depends more on the tranny and not the engine correct?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[Stomis]

The size can be limited by the tranny but the sm465 bell can swallow either. You're factory size should be determined by GVWR which normally will go hand in hand with big block or small block.

Theres some hotrod/scientific things to be said about inertia vs torque and clutch size vs rotational mass but at the end of the day just buy yourself a nice 11in and you'll be fine. Ive heard of oldschool hot rod guys claiming that for a motor lacking in torque the bigger clutch will aid in internetia to snap you off the line a little better. The larger clutch can also be a detriment and leech on power because theoretically you could get a smaller clutch will just as much holding power but less weight spinning around.

 

[diesel4me]

I'd avoid a 3 lever "borg & beck" pressure plate ,those tend to fail rapidly and easily...
I had poor luck with 3 of them,all 3 broke a lever within a few months..one lasted less than 30 days.. --ended up using a diaphram type instead...much easier pedal effort and it'll last a lot longer...