Pressure Plates

The pressure plate is the part of your manual transmission’s clutch that presses the clutch disc to the engine’s flywheel, allowing engine power to transfer to the transmission. Normally, the pressure plate’s spring tension holds the disc against the flywheel. When you step on the clutch pedal, the springs are compressed by the throw-out (or release) bearing, and the disc is disengaged from the flywheel.

There are three main kinds of pressure plate:

• Diaphragm-style pressure plates are found on a lot of late model cars. Inside, a single spring (called a Bellville spring) presses against the disc. They require minimal pedal effort and are inexpensive, so they’re ideal for daily drivers, but they lack the extreme holding power required by some levels of competitive driving.

• Borg & Beck-style pressure plates use 12 coil springs to press against the disc, and three sturdy levers to release. They can engage under high speeds and loads, but the clutch pedal tends to feel stiffer and requires more strength to depress.

• Long-style plates work like Borg & Beck plates, but with weighted levers that turn centrifugal force into extra holding power. They deliver competitive holding power without excessive pedal effort.

Top Brands

Summit Racing only partners with trusted brands, so any pressure plate you order will fit and perform as advertised. Shop from manufacturers like RAM, McLeod, Centerforce, Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT), Tilton, and more.