Harnessing
700+ horsepower and 1200+ lb.-ft. of torque requires
more than a typical street clutch, yet the relatively
low engine speed of the diesel engine does not
demand a small diameter multi-disc racing clutch.
The solution was a 12-inch dual-disc system
A
massive clutch system is needed to control the 700+
horsepower and 1200+ lb.-ft. of torque produced by
the Cummins® Project Sidewinder diesel engine.
The clamping force required to harness the torque output
demanded a custom-built 12-inch dual-disc system with
a precision ground billet steel flywheel. The material
used on the discs is an organic compound with a Kevlar® weave
for added strength and durability. The torque capacity
of this dual-disc setup is in excess of 1200 lb.-ft.
While the maximum capacity of this clutch is right
at the peak torque output of the engine, tire slippage
is expected to occur well before clutch slippage becomes
a problem.
The
larger diameter of the dual-disc system provides an
optimum compromise between controlling the power, and
allowing for easy street driving when compared to off-the-shelf
small diameter multi-disc racing clutch systems. While
able to handle the torque requirements, these smaller
systems can often prove very sensitive to slippage,
as might be encountered in street driving, or in starting
out with a trailer in tow. The Banks Engineering-developed
clutch assembly addresses the Sidewinder’s multiple
needs of Bonneville, drag racing, road course competition,
street driving, and trailer towing.
The
clutch is activated hydraulically via the Wilwood® hanging
pedal assembly. |
