71 442 W30 - Two Plate Clutch? Interesting...

[csx289]

I just bought a 71 442 W30, incredibly original 20k mile car, from the second owner. It is an M-22 4 speed car, and on the original window sticker an option listed is "Clutch, Heavy Duty Two Plate" .

The car has the original clutch and has never been apart, so I am wondering what to expect? They made 247 W30 4 speeds in 71, has anybody seen this option on one before, or any other Oldsmobiles for that matter? I can't recall Pontiac offering a dual disc clutch, but I could have missed that as well.

I know Chevy had a similar option (code KE?) ,and had seen the option listed in Olds books but never on a car.

Anybody have any history or coments on it? Curious to hear from the Olds guys!

Thanks,
Colin

[Keith Tedford]

When we were first pricing our COPO Chevelles, the dual disc clutch was about a $95 option. Never saw a car with one though. It should be just the ticket for launching one of those big torque engines with slicks.

[Lynn]

I agree: Two of those units recently sold on ebay, one used and one NOS, both by the same seller.

Lynn

[TimG]

I'm not familiar with the option for Oldsmobile. Will pictures of the car be on your website? I'm an Olds fan.

[csx289]

Hey Tim,
I will eventually get some pictures up on my site - need to post some cars that are for sale before I post the ones that aren't!

One of my first cars was a 71 W30 convert, my buddy still owns it and it is stored in my building. The car I just bought is not a convert, but really cool - I love it! Black with white stripes, unrestored, grease pencil marks still on the valve covers... I'll let you know when I get some pictures. Feels good to have a W Machine again!

Colin

[442w30]

I think the only cars to have this option was the Olds and the Vette. It's a very desireable option.