727 Build for Mid-10s

Duane said
That drum will not blow up. Peace of mind indeed. I have never seen any direct comparisons,and I understand that the thinner clutches give more surface area and holding ability, but it seems to me that for longevity, five thicker clutches would last longer before the friction material wears down to the steels. The piston would just advance further out as the clutches wear down over time, but the thinner ones have much less material before they get down to the steel. Hmmm.

That makes perfect sense to me. Maybe that's why I was recommended to use 5 thicks. I didn't care to ask at the time.

Duane said
Keep in mind there is more than one way to thin the pressure plate.
The easy and cheap way is to throw it on a surface grinder and grind the entire plate. The other and more expensive way is to only thin the plate in the area wear the snap ring fits. A step grind which would require more setup time in the machine shop. Some builders prefer this step groove to better maintain the strength of the pressure plate so it cannot bow out.

Thankfully I don't need a machinist now that I found out several companies sell thinner pressure plates. After that one arrives, I think I'll have everything I need. This thing's definitely been a learning experience. Thanks for your help!