South Bend Stage 3 Drag Clutch Kit – VW MK8/MK8.5 GTI & Golf R
Product Description
Take your VW MK8/MK8.5 GTI or Golf R to the next level with the South Bend Stage 3 Drag Clutch Kit. Built for maximum bite and high-power launches, this kit is engineered for drag racing and aggressive street/strip builds. Designed as a direct bolt-on for the VW MK8 and MK8.5 platforms, this kit delivers 600 ft/lbs. of torque capacity and the friction material used is graphite impregnated ceramic which is perfectly suited for drag racing and drifting.
Fitment
- VW GTI (MK8.5): 2025+, 2.0T EA888 Evo4
- VW GTI (MK8): 2022–2024, 2.0T EA888 Evo4
- VW Golf R (MK8.5): 2025+, 2.0T EA888 AWD Evo4
- VW Golf R (MK8): 2022–2024, 2.0T EA888 AWD Evo4
Performance Ratings
- Torque Capacity: 600 ft/lbs. (crank)
- Disc Material: Graphite impregnated ceramic
- Pedal Feel: Much stiffer than stock with aggressive bite
- Best For: Drag racing, high-power street/strip builds, and drifting
Installation
- Estimated Time: 6–8 hours (professional install recommended)
- Difficulty: ★★★★☆ (Advanced)
- Tools Required: Clutch alignment tool, transmission jack, torque wrench
Pro Tip: Replace the throw-out bearing, flywheel bolts, and rear main seal during install for best results.
Why Choose South Bend?
- Extreme torque capacity for drag racing and drifting
- Puck disc reduces rotational mass and are assembled with all high carbon component pieces for maximum strength
- Aggressive Engagement ideal for competition use
- Trusted brand with decades of VW/Audi performance expertise
FAQs
Q: Will this clutch fit DSG models?
A: No, this kit is designed for manual transmission only.
Q: How long is the break-in period?
A: About 500 miles of light driving to properly seat the disc.
Q: How does the pedal feel compare to stock?
A: Much stiffer with sharp, aggressive engagement built for drag racing.
Q: What is the torque capacity of this kit?
A: Rated for 600 ft/lbs. at the crank.
Shop with Confidence
- Fast shipping
- Fitment guarantee on all orders