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American Muscle Clutch Specialists
Ford Mustang Clutch Kits & Upgrades
From Fox Bodies to S550s, South Bend Clutch has been building performance clutches for Ford Mustangs for over two decades. Whether you're running a stock 5.0 or a 1,000+ HP supercharged build, we have the clutch to match.
24+
Years in Business
1,500+
HP Capacity Available
100%
Made in USA
12/12K
Warranty Coverage
Performance Clutches for Every Mustang Generation
The Ford Mustang has been America's sports car for nearly 60 years. From the original pony car to today's 760-horsepower GT500, the Mustang has always been about accessible performance. And for enthusiasts who want more than the factory delivered, the aftermarket has always been ready.
South Bend Clutch has been part of that aftermarket community since the beginning. We understand that Mustang owners push their cars hard—at the drag strip, on the road course, and on the street. Our clutches are designed to handle that abuse while maintaining the drivability that makes a Mustang a Mustang.
- Complete coverage from Fox Body to S550
- Clutches rated from 350 to 1,500+ HP
- T5, T45, T56, MT82, TR6060 applications
- Street-friendly engagement even at high power
- Complete kits with all necessary hardware
- Tech support from fellow enthusiasts
Fox Body
Fox Body Mustang (1979-1993)
The Lightweight Legend
The Fox Body Mustang launched an entire generation of muscle car enthusiasts. Its lightweight chassis (under 3,000 lbs in many configurations) and simple, modular 5.0L V8 made it the perfect platform for modification. From drag strips to autocross courses, the Fox Body dominated 1980s and early 1990s motorsports.
The 5.0L "H.O." (High Output) engine produced 225 horsepower from the factory—modest by today's standards but more than enough in a car this light. With heads, cam, intake, and supporting mods, 400+ horsepower is achievable on a stock bottom end. Push further with a stroker kit or forced induction, and 600+ horsepower is within reach.
Transmission Options
Fox Bodies came with the T5 5-speed manual or AOD automatic. The T5 is a light-duty transmission that struggles above 400 horsepower. Many owners upgrade to Tremec T56 or TKO transmissions for better strength and gear ratios. South Bend offers clutches for all Fox Body transmission applications.
Fox Body Specifications
- Engine 5.0L V8 (302 ci)
- Stock HP 225 HP
- Stock Torque 300 lb-ft
- Weight 2,900-3,200 lbs
- Trans T5, AOD
- Swap Trans T56, TKO
SN95 / New Edge
SN95 & New Edge Mustang (1994-2004)
Evolution of the Platform
The SN95 Mustang (1994-1998) and New Edge (1999-2004) refined the Fox platform with updated styling and improved suspension. The 5.0L gave way to the modular 4.6L V8, which offered better high-RPM breathing but less low-end torque than its predecessor.
The Terminator Cobra (2003-2004) stands out as one of the most capable factory Mustangs ever built. Its supercharged 4.6L DOHC produced 390 horsepower—though real-world dynos often showed 400+. With a pulley swap and tune, 500+ horsepower is easily achievable. The iron-block 4.6L can handle 600+ horsepower reliably.
Clutch Requirements
These Mustangs use 10-spline or 26-spline input shafts depending on year and model. The Terminator Cobra's T56 transmission is particularly stout, handling 700+ horsepower with the right clutch. South Bend's dual disc options are popular for supercharged applications.
SN95/New Edge Specifications
- Engine 4.6L 2V/4V
- Cobra 4.6L DOHC
- Terminator 4.6L S/C
- Stock HP 260-390 HP
- Trans T45, T56
- Clutch Spline 10 or 26
Retro Modern
S197 Mustang (2005-2014)
The Modern Muscle Car Era
The S197 brought retro styling back to the Mustang with thoroughly modern underpinnings. The 4.6L 3-valve GT produced 300 horsepower, while the Shelby GT500 models packed a supercharged 5.4L making 500-662 horsepower depending on year.
In 2011, Ford introduced the 5.0L "Coyote" engine to the Mustang GT, producing 412-420 horsepower in naturally-aspirated form. The Coyote's DOHC design revs freely to 7,500+ RPM and responds extremely well to boost. Supercharged Coyote S197s regularly make 700+ horsepower.
Transmission Evolution
The TR3650 5-speed gave way to the Getrag MT82 6-speed in 2011. The GT500 used the bulletproof Tremec TR6060. For high-power builds, the TR6060 remains the gold standard, though the MT82 can handle moderate power with a quality clutch.
S197 Specifications
- Engine 4.6L/5.0L/5.4L
- GT (2011+) 5.0L Coyote
- GT500 5.4L/5.8L S/C
- Stock HP 300-662 HP
- Trans TR3650, MT82, TR6060
- Clutch Size 11"
Current Generation
S550 Mustang (2015-Present)
World-Class Performance
The S550 Mustang finally delivered the independent rear suspension enthusiasts had requested for decades. Combined with the refined 5.0L Coyote V8 (435-480 horsepower depending on year), the S550 is a genuinely world-class sports car that can compete with European rivals.
The GT350 and GT500 models take things further. The GT350's flat-plane crank 5.2L "Voodoo" engine revs to 8,250 RPM and produces 526 horsepower. The GT500's supercharged 5.2L "Predator" makes 760 horsepower—the most powerful factory Ford ever.
Transmission Challenges
The MT82 6-speed in base GTs has known issues with syncro wear and shift quality. Many owners upgrade to the Tremec TR6060 or Magnum. The GT350 and GT500 use the stronger TR6070 and TR9070 respectively. South Bend offers clutches for all S550 applications.
S550 Specifications
- Engine 5.0L/5.2L V8
- GT 435-480 HP
- GT350 526 HP (Voodoo)
- GT500 760 HP (Predator)
- Trans MT82, TR6060, TR9070
- Clutch Size 11"
Mustang Manual Transmissions
South Bend offers clutches for every Mustang manual transmission
T56 / TR6060
Various
The Tremec T56 and its evolution, the TR6060, are the gold standard for Mustang performance. Found in Cobra, GT500, and swap applications, these 6-speed manuals handle serious power with proper clutch selection.
- Clutch Size 11 Inch
- Input Spline 26-Spline
- Torque Rating 550-700 lb-ft
- Max HP (w/ SBC) 1,200+ HP
- Best For High HP builds
MT82
2011-Present
The Getrag MT82 6-speed is standard equipment in Mustang GTs from 2011-present. While not as strong as the T56/TR6060, it can handle moderate power with proper clutch selection and gentle shift technique.
- Clutch Size 11 Inch
- Input Spline 26-Spline
- Torque Rating 430 lb-ft (stock)
- Max HP (w/ SBC) 600 HP
- Best For Stock to moderate builds
Mustang Clutch Application Guide
Find the right clutch for your Mustang based on year, engine, and power level
| Year Range | Vehicle | Engine | Transmission | Power Level | Recommended Clutch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1986-1995 | Ford Mustang GT/Cobra | 5.0L V8 | T5 | Stock-350 HP | Stage 2 Daily |
| 1996-2010 | Ford Mustang GT | 4.6L V8 | T45/T56 | Stock-450 HP | Stage 2 Endurance |
| 2003-2004 | Ford Mustang Cobra | 4.6L Supercharged | T56 | 450-650 HP | Stage 3 Drag |
| 2011-2024 | Ford Mustang GT | 5.0L Coyote | MT82/TR6060 | Stock-550 HP | Stage 2 Endurance |
| 2011-2024 | Ford Mustang GT | 5.0L Coyote (Boosted) | TR6060 | 550-850 HP | Dual Disc |
| 2020-2024 | Ford Mustang GT500 | 5.2L Predator S/C | TR9070 DCT | 760+ HP | Contact for Options |
Which Clutch Is Right for Your Mustang?
Match your clutch to your power level and driving style
Daily Driver
Stage 2 Clutch
Stock to 500 HP
Perfect for stock to mildly modified Mustangs. Smooth engagement with significantly increased holding power over the factory clutch.
- OEM-like pedal feel
- Organic friction material
- Stock flywheel compatible
- Excellent daily driver
- Handles bolt-ons and tune
- Complete kit included
Performance
Stage 3 / Dual Disc
450 to 850 HP
For supercharged and turbocharged Mustangs making serious power. Aggressive holding power with street-manageable engagement.
- Ceramic or hybrid friction
- Single or dual disc options
- Excellent heat capacity
- Firmer pedal feel
- Handles boost well
- Billet flywheel options
Competition
Triple Disc Racing
800 to 1,500+ HP
Maximum holding power for dedicated drag cars and high-HP street builds. When slip isn't an option.
- Highest torque capacity
- Triple friction surfaces
- Full ceramic friction
- Lightened assembly
- SFI certified
- Pro drag proven
Why Mustang Owners Choose South Bend
Trusted by enthusiasts and racers alike
Mustang Experts
From Fox Bodies to S550s, we've developed clutches for every generation of America's pony car. We understand what Mustang owners need.
Made in USA
American clutches for America's sports car. Every South Bend Clutch is manufactured in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Boost Ready
Superchargers and turbos are popular on Coyote Mustangs. Our clutches are designed to handle boosted power reliably.
Complete Kits
Every kit includes the clutch, pressure plate, bearings, and alignment tool. No extra parts needed.
Mustang Clutch FAQs
Common questions about Mustang clutches and upgrades
Which Mustang transmission is strongest?
The Tremec TR6060 (found in GT500 models) is the strongest manual transmission available for the Mustang platform. It's rated for 550-700 lb-ft of torque from the factory and can handle 1,000+ HP with a quality clutch.
For extreme power levels (1,500+ HP), the Tremec Magnum or T56 Magnum XL are popular swap options with even higher torque ratings.
Should I upgrade my MT82?
The MT82 has a mixed reputation. Stock, it's adequate for daily driving and moderate modifications (intake, exhaust, tune). Issues typically arise with:
- Aggressive power-shifting
- High torque loads from superchargers
- Synchro wear in cold weather
For 600+ HP builds, consider upgrading to a TR6060 swap. For moderate power, a quality clutch and proper shift technique can keep the MT82 reliable.
What clutch for a supercharged Coyote?
Supercharged Coyote Mustangs typically make 650-900+ HP depending on the setup. We recommend:
- 600-750 HP: Stage 3 single disc with ceramic friction
- 750-900 HP: Dual disc clutch
- 900+ HP: Triple disc for dedicated drag cars
The key is matching holding capacity to your actual power level. An undersized clutch will slip; an oversized clutch may have harsher engagement than needed for street use.
Do I need a new flywheel?
It depends on your clutch choice and current flywheel condition:
- Stock Replacement: Your stock flywheel can be resurfaced if it's in good condition
- Performance Single Disc: Stock flywheel often works; lightweight flywheel optional for quicker revs
- Multi-Disc Kits: These require our specific flywheel (included in kit)
For boosted applications, we recommend our billet steel flywheel for maximum strength and heat dissipation.
Ready to Upgrade Your Mustang?
Find the perfect clutch or talk to our performance experts.
Questions? Email us at sales@southbendclutch.com