Slipper clutch
#1
Melting Slicks
Thread Starter
Slipper clutch
I wonder why "slipper clutches" are not used (more, or at all) on race cars - they are extensively used on race motorcycles. I read that a few cars have used or tried them but don't know any more than that. To be precise, a slipper clutch slips when the rear wheels try to drive engine speed more than it would naturally be, in other words on a downshift if the wheel speed is closely matched to the engine speed the clutch is normal, but if the difference is too great (they are typically adjustable) it will slip. They prevent wheel hop entering corners on racing motorcycles and they can apparently save an engine by preventing a mechanical overrev in the case of a botched downshift.
I realize most race cars have sequentials these days (and indeed bike trannys are sequentials as well) and I don't know where a slipper would or would not fit in that type of application in a car, but they sound pretty cool for manual transmissions. All serious racing bikes have them so they definitely have merit. Like a fool I have been contemplating owning a motorcycle again so that is why I have been reading about them.
I realize most race cars have sequentials these days (and indeed bike trannys are sequentials as well) and I don't know where a slipper would or would not fit in that type of application in a car, but they sound pretty cool for manual transmissions. All serious racing bikes have them so they definitely have merit. Like a fool I have been contemplating owning a motorcycle again so that is why I have been reading about them.
Last edited by Everett Ogilvie; 05-10-2012 at 09:21 AM.
#4
Burning Brakes
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I realize most race cars have sequentials these days (and indeed bike trannys are sequentials as well) and I don't know where a slipper would or would not fit in that type of application in a car, but they sound pretty cool for manual transmissions. All serious racing bikes have them so they definitely have merit. Like a fool I have been contemplating owning a motorcycle again so that is why I have been reading about them.
But I agree, I've always wondered this and why cars dont have wet clutches as well? I mean, sure it would add another 5 quarts to a tranny for a wet clutch, but they last forever in bikes, and 90% of the time you need to remove the tranny to get the clutch out anyway.