Alright, fellow S2000 enthusiasts! If you're like me, you're always looking for ways to squeeze every last drop of performance out of your beloved roadster. And let's be real, the clutch is a crucial component in the drivetrain, directly impacting how your engine's power translates to the wheels. Today, we're diving deep into the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch for the S2000 – a popular upgrade that promises enhanced performance and durability. We'll cover everything from its features and benefits to installation considerations and overall value.

Why Upgrade Your S2000 Clutch?

Before we get into the specifics of the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch, let's quickly touch on why upgrading your clutch is even necessary. The stock clutch in the S2000 is decent for everyday driving and mild performance use. However, as you start pushing the limits with modifications like increased horsepower, forced induction, or even aggressive track days, the stock clutch can quickly become a bottleneck. A worn or inadequate clutch can lead to:

• Clutch slippage: This is when the clutch disc fails to fully engage with the flywheel, causing a loss of power and acceleration. You'll often notice this under hard acceleration, where the engine revs up but the car doesn't accelerate proportionally.
• Difficulty shifting: An aging or weak clutch can make it difficult to engage gears smoothly, leading to grinding or clunking noises.
• Reduced power transfer: Even without noticeable slippage, a stock clutch might not be able to handle the increased torque of a modified engine, resulting in a less efficient power transfer to the wheels.
• Premature wear: Pushing a stock clutch beyond its limits will significantly shorten its lifespan, requiring more frequent replacements.

Upgrading to a performance clutch like the Exedy Hyper Single can address these issues and provide a more robust and responsive driving experience. So, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms or planning to boost your S2000's performance, a clutch upgrade is definitely something to consider, guys.

Exedy Hyper Single Clutch: Overview and Features

The Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is designed as a direct replacement for the OEM clutch, but with significant improvements in terms of materials, design, and performance. It's engineered to handle higher torque loads and provide a more direct and responsive feel. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

• Lightweight Design: Exedy utilizes lightweight materials in the construction of the Hyper Single Clutch, reducing the overall rotational inertia. This translates to quicker engine response, improved acceleration, and smoother shifts. The reduced weight also helps to minimize wear on the transmission components.
• High Clamp Load: The clutch cover is designed to provide a significantly higher clamp load compared to the stock unit. This increased clamp load ensures a positive and consistent engagement, even under high torque conditions, preventing slippage and maximizing power transfer.
• Cerametallic Friction Material: The clutch disc features a cerametallic friction material, known for its high coefficient of friction and excellent heat resistance. This material can withstand the extreme temperatures generated during aggressive driving and provides a long service life.
• Dampening System: To mitigate noise and vibration, the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch incorporates a dampening system in the clutch disc. This system helps to absorb vibrations and reduce gear noise, resulting in a more refined driving experience.
• Direct Replacement: The Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement for the OEM clutch, meaning no modifications are necessary for installation. This makes the installation process relatively straightforward, although professional installation is always recommended.

These features combine to create a clutch that can handle the demands of a high-performance S2000, providing a noticeable improvement in driving feel and performance. It's a popular choice among S2000 owners who track their cars or simply want a more responsive and engaging driving experience on the street.

Benefits of the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch for Your S2000

Okay, so we've covered the features, but what are the real-world benefits of upgrading to the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch? Here's a rundown of the advantages you can expect:

• Improved Performance: This is the most obvious benefit. The increased clamp load and high-friction material ensure that all of your engine's power is transferred to the wheels, resulting in quicker acceleration and improved overall performance. You'll feel a noticeable difference, especially if you've already made other performance modifications.
• Enhanced Durability: The Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust design can withstand the rigors of aggressive driving and high-performance applications, providing a longer lifespan compared to the stock clutch. This means less frequent replacements and more time enjoying your S2000.
• More Responsive Feel: The lightweight design and direct engagement provide a more responsive and connected feel between the engine and the wheels. This translates to quicker and more precise shifts, making your driving experience more engaging and enjoyable.
• Reduced Clutch Slippage: Clutch slippage is a common problem with the stock clutch, especially in modified S2000s. The Exedy Hyper Single Clutch eliminates this issue, ensuring consistent and reliable performance, even under high torque loads.
• Better Heat Dissipation: The cerametallic friction material and optimized design provide better heat dissipation compared to the stock clutch. This helps to prevent clutch fade and maintain consistent performance, even during extended periods of aggressive driving.

In short, the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch offers a significant upgrade in terms of performance, durability, and driving feel. It's a worthwhile investment for any S2000 owner who wants to get the most out of their car, whether on the street or on the track.

Installation Considerations

While the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is designed as a direct replacement, proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

• Professional Installation Recommended: Unless you have extensive experience working on cars, it's highly recommended to have the clutch installed by a qualified mechanic. A professional will have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure that the clutch is installed correctly and properly adjusted.
• Proper Break-In Procedure: After installation, it's essential to follow the recommended break-in procedure. This typically involves driving the car gently for a few hundred miles, avoiding hard acceleration and high RPMs. This allows the clutch disc and flywheel to properly mate and ensures optimal performance and longevity.
• Flywheel Resurfacing or Replacement: When replacing the clutch, it's always a good idea to resurface or replace the flywheel. A worn or damaged flywheel can cause clutch slippage and premature wear. Resurfacing the flywheel provides a smooth and flat surface for the new clutch disc to engage with.
• Inspect Other Components: While the transmission is out, it's a good opportunity to inspect other related components, such as the throw-out bearing, pilot bearing, and clutch fork. Replace any worn or damaged parts to ensure optimal performance and prevent future issues.
• Proper Torque Specifications: It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's torque specifications when installing the clutch and related components. Over-tightening or under-tightening bolts can lead to damage and premature failure.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is installed correctly and performs optimally for years to come. Don't skimp on the installation process – it's just as important as the quality of the clutch itself.

Is the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch Right for You?

So, is the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch the right choice for your S2000? Here's a simple decision guide:

• Consider this clutch if:
  • You're experiencing clutch slippage with your stock clutch.
  • You've made performance modifications to your engine (e.g., intake, exhaust, tuning).
  • You plan to track your S2000 regularly.
  • You want a more responsive and engaging driving experience.
  • You're looking for a durable and reliable clutch that can handle high torque loads.
• Perhaps explore other options if:
  • Your S2000 is completely stock and you only use it for gentle daily driving.
  • You're on a very tight budget.
  • You prioritize comfort and quietness above all else (the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch can be slightly noisier than the stock clutch).

Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, if you're looking for a performance upgrade that will significantly improve your S2000's driving experience, the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is definitely worth considering. Weigh the pros and cons, do your research, and make an informed decision that's right for you and your ride!

Final Thoughts

The Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is a fantastic upgrade for the S2000, offering a noticeable improvement in performance, durability, and driving feel. It's a popular choice among enthusiasts who demand the best from their cars, and for good reason. While the installation process requires some attention to detail, the end result is well worth the effort. So, if you're ready to take your S2000 to the next level, the Exedy Hyper Single Clutch is a great place to start. Happy driving, folks!