Clueing in the Clueless (again)

[Windy Wilson]

So soon.

What is the difference between a diaphragm clutch and a standard lever clutch?
How can I tell which is installed in my 1970 Ford truck?
It's a 308 with a three speed transmission.
I've been looking for explanations of the difference, but mostly for some indication of which is actually installed in my truck.
The mechanic can "try to peek inside" to tell me, but I'd really like to minimize the unnecessary driving around with a slipping clutch if I can help it.

edit to add, I mean it's a 302.
Well, this IS a forum dedicated in large measure to guns and their legal use.

[Netpackrat]

I think what you are describing is the differences in styles of pressure plates. In general, there is no way to be certain of what you have short of actually taking it apart. It might be possible to get in there with a bore scope or inspection mirror through the hole for the release lever, but there really isn't a lot of point in that, because whatever it is, it is. And since you will (should) be replacing the pressure plate at the same time as the clutch disk, whatever the new one is, it is. In general, the diaphragm type is better, because there are fewer parts, and less to go wrong with it.

[Precision]

diaphram clutch

http://www.luk.de/content.luk.de/en/pro ... ch_new.jsp

a lever clutch specifically for a f100

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=334324

The difference is how the separation force is applied and how much clamping power / frictional surface is applied to the flywheel. Not a mechanic, but assuming you buy a complete kit (and dimensionally it fits) you should be able to "upgrade" to the diapham one.

[Windy Wilson]

Thanks, all. I was trying to find out so I could buy the parts ahead of time and minimize the time in the shop.