Clutch upgrade for 1915cc?

[happyjack]

I'm new to Beetles so this may seem like a silly question. I have a 71 Super AS. I'm thinking about replacing the stock 1600 with a new 1915 (or is it 1914, I don't remember). Anyway, my question is will I need to upgrade/strengthen the stock clutch to handle this much power? As I understand it, on a normal (non-AS) bug it would be a good idea to switch to a stronger clutch (1700). Any thoughts? Am I way off base? Is it even possable to strengthen or upgrade the AS clutch system?

[bookwus]

Hiya Jack,

For sure, I cannot give a definitive answer to your questions.  I'm a stock kinda guy.  But, FWIW, I do recall several rather heated discussions (in other forums) concerning adding additional horses to an AS equipped car.  The additional horses in one particular case consisted of a 1776 with the usual goodies, dual Kads and a modified exhaust.  The general consensus (although this was by no means unanimous) was that the stock clutch would simply not stand up to the increase in the torque with the 1776.  My guess is that with a 1914 you would be way out of the range of a stock clutch.
And your last question is a good one.  I have not heard of a heavy duty clutch and plate to fit an AS application.  That doesn't mean they don't exist.  You might want to check out one of the tranny rebuilders who specializes in performance.  Stuff Transaxles down in San Diego, maybe?  Find 'em at www.bugtrans.com
Good luck to you - you may wind up needing it!

Mike

1970 AS Bug

[happyjack]

Thanks!

[Untitled]

I've heard from some people putting 2000cc+ engines in their AS bugs and they said that if you don't drive like a maniac (burn outs, etc.) and take care of the transmission the stock clutch components should be okay.

[68AutoBug]

The clutch plate shouldn't be a problem with normal driving.. IMHO..
but the pressure plate cannot be made stronger. We are stuck with both I'm afraid..  The clutch is virtually IN or OUT so there shouldn't be a problem... if there is a problem it would be the pressure plate...
I would like to hear from anyone who has fitted a larger engine to their auto stick.. and whether they had problems or NOT...

Lee