Serpent Seven20, Setup Manual, Page: 29 / 40

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B10. CENTAX-3 CLUTCH
The Centax-3 clutch included with the Serpent 720 may be used to tune the
performance of the car. It is important to note that there are many factors
that may affect engine and clutch performance. Factors such as proper
engine tuning, proper clutch assembly, clutch gap, clutch endplay can all
affect clutch performance.
BUILDING AND MAINTAINING THE CENTAX-3 CLUTCH
When building a Centax-3 clutch, it is very important to shim it properly
for proper operation and long life. An improperly built Centax-3 clutch may
cause excessive slip, too early or too late engagement, engine bogging, and
premature thrustbearing failure.
Greasing & Oiling
The thrustbearing in the Centax-3 clutch should be re-greased at least
once every 30 minutes, or more often if you run on dirty tracks or your
car goes off the track often. We recommend using a thick, high-tack
grease such as graphite grease.The ball-bearings in the Centax-3 clutch
should be oiled regularly with a good, light bearing oil. The ball-bearings
are subjected to high heat for extended periods, and have a tendency to
get “rusty” after a short time (which may lead to failure if not oiled).
Thrustbearing Installation
The thrustbearing has two rings - one with a large inner diameter, and
one with a small inner diameter. The ring with large inner diameter MUST
go towards the flywheel.
BUILDING AND SHIMMING THE CENTAX-3 CLUTCH – CLUTCH GAP
There are two ways to shim the
Centax-3 clutch: clutch gap
and end play. Each of these is
adjusted independently of the
other.
Clutch gap is the amount that
the clutch shoe moves before it
contacts the clutch housing. This
affects the WAY that the clutch
engages more than WHEN it
engages.
Clutch gap is the FIRST thing
you should adjust on the Centax-
3 clutch, and it is done with
the bearings NOT installed.
For information on setting the
clutch gap, see the Serpent 720
Instruction Manual.
In the images shown here, clutch gap is the difference between values A and
B. You adjust clutch gap by placing shims (medium size) on the thrustbearing
holder in front of the thrustbearing assembly.
Push
A
Pull
B
Clutch Gap shims