What is the best clutch upgrade for the Fiesta ST180?
Our preferred upgrade is the Genuine Ford Fiesta ST200 clutch.
It is suitable for Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 ST180 builds, while retaining almost identical pedal feel and drivability to the standard ST180 clutch.
Based on our own experience, the ST200 clutch has handled more than 320 lb-ft without issues. This should be treated as real-world experience rather than a guaranteed torque rating, as clutch life also depends on installation quality, vehicle condition and driving style.
Does the ST200 clutch feel heavier?
The pedal feel is almost identical to the standard ST180 clutch.
This makes it an excellent road-car upgrade because it provides greater torque capacity without the heavy pedal or harsh engagement associated with more aggressive aftermarket clutches.
Do I need to replace the flywheel?
If the existing clutch has slipped, we recommend replacing the dual-mass flywheel at the same time.
A slipping clutch generates heat and can glaze or damage the flywheel friction surface. A new clutch plate may not bed correctly against a compromised flywheel, which can shorten the life of the replacement clutch.
We would also consider replacing the flywheel on higher-mileage cars while the gearbox is already removed, even where the old clutch has not obviously slipped.
Should the slave cylinder be replaced?
Yes. We recommend fitting a new concentric slave cylinder whenever the gearbox is removed for clutch replacement.
The slave cylinder is relatively inexpensive compared with the labour involved in removing the gearbox. Reusing an ageing part risks having to repeat the entire job if it begins leaking or fails shortly afterwards.
Do the flywheel bolts need replacing?
Yes. The flywheel bolts are single-use stretch bolts and must be replaced once removed.
The original bolts should not be reused.
Should the driveshaft seals be replaced?
We recommend replacing the driveshaft seals while the driveshafts and gearbox are removed.
The existing seals may refit without leaking, but the parts are inexpensive and replacing them during the clutch job helps avoid another major strip-down if an older seal subsequently fails.
Should I fit a single-mass flywheel?
We do not recommend single-mass flywheel conversions for the Fiesta ST180.
In our experience, they can introduce additional vibration and drivetrain shock, and we have seen them associated with gearbox problems on these cars.
For road and tuned applications, we recommend retaining a good-quality dual-mass flywheel.
Common clutch-fitting mistake
A common installation error is fitting the clutch plate the wrong way around.
If installed backwards, it can cause the slave cylinder to fail when the hydraulic system is bled. The clutch plate orientation should therefore be checked carefully before the gearbox is refitted.
Our recommendation
For most Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 road cars, choose the Genuine Ford ST200 clutch.
If the old clutch has slipped or the vehicle is higher mileage, fit the complete clutch and dual-mass flywheel setup.
Whenever the gearbox is removed, also replace:
Concentric slave cylinder
Flywheel bolts
Driveshaft seals
Vendor:Genuine Ford
