[Pete Munroe]

Guys,

I have the VERY first of the latest McLeod hydraulic throwout bearings. It was a pre-production prototype...I voluntered to try it as it eliminated the "banjo" fittings.

The "banjo fittings" are gone...there is a new housing design.
It uses 90 degree machined fittings. They are sealed with TWO double o-rings...the fitting is retained in the housing by an expansion pin.

(Actually, the design is a very similar to a GM t/o bearing used in the Corvette...GM dropped the patent, and the design features can know be copied.)

I have had the new bearing installed for about 8 months and 2000 miles...two track events, etc...and it is still dry.

On installation it is IMPERATIVE that you limit the travel of the ram. (I used a bolt through the fiberglass footbox on my ERA 289 to stop the clutch pedal...whatever works on your car)...as soon as the clutch will release, add a 1/4 inch or so and stop the travel...if you limit the travel so the ram cannot over extend the ram will probably never leak.

The ram was never really the problem if installed with a travel limiter, the problem was the banjo's.

If you have the old bearing, call McLeod they will upgrade it for a nominal amount...DO NOT bother screwing around with the old banjo's...even if it's not leaking...when it's clutch replacement time, send it back to McLeod, they will install your guts in the new housing.

They are good people and will support the product.

Pete