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

**csx289** · #1 06-13-2005, 07:45 AM

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 · #2 06-13-2005, 07:52 AM

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

**csx289** · #3 06-13-2005, 07:57 AM

Have you ever seen another? Any factory literature on it out there? The Olds guys I know have never even heard of it.

442w30 · #4 06-13-2005, 09:00 AM

The Olds guys should know better. Check out some old road tests or 1971 intro features and you'll find it there.

**olredalert** · #5 06-13-2005, 09:21 AM

------Having had a couple of dual-disc clutch Corvettes and driven others as well, I can tell you that they are pretty much bullet-proof. Oh yes,,,, I have abused them. Easy pedal too. I have always thought they were just about the perfect clutch, at least for me, anyway!...........Bill S

retengw31 · #6 06-13-2005, 05:16 PM

I'm thinking that dual disc option was only available on Olds in 1970 and 1971. Lots of clutch warranty back then. The 1968 W31's used a 11 inch Scheiffer unit (with a GM part number assigned)that took a leg like a Sumo wrestler to drive in traffic. I think the only other GM production application for that clutch was the big 427 Vette (L88?) around then (1968). Needed it for the high RPM uses. It was not used on the W30's or any other Olds back then. Not sure if 1969 and 1970 W31's also used that Scheiffer unit. Don't think the dual disc option was ever used on the W31.

The dual disc was a sweet one to drive as the pedal pressure was low like a standard clutch, but would hold up. Remember seeing cars built with it, but have no facts or figures.

**MosportGreen66** · #7 06-13-2005, 06:47 PM

You guys talking about this?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...category=34208

442w30 · #8 06-13-2005, 08:25 PM

Dave, I think the first year for the Olds is '71.

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