Best Clutch for a 1974 Chevy 5.7 Dump Truck

If you’re running a 1974 Chevy dump truck with a 5.7L (350 small block) engine, you know how critical a tough, smooth, and dependable clutch is—especially when you’re hauling heavy loads or backing into tight job sites. Whether you’re restoring an old-school workhorse or still using it day-to-day, your clutch must be able to handle torque, terrain, and time.

So, what’s the best clutch for a ‘74 Chevy 5.7 dump truck?
This guide breaks down top-rated clutch kits for strength, durability, and real-world performance, so you can get back to hauling with confidence.

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What Makes a Good Clutch for a Dump Truck?

✅ Torque Handling

A 5.7L small block can put down some serious low-end torque, especially with headers, intake upgrades, or towing stress. A quality clutch needs to match that grunt without slipping.

✅ Smooth Engagement

You need a clutch that engages smoothly—no grabbing or sudden jerks—especially important when you’re backing up a loaded bed or navigating tight construction zones.

✅ Heavy-Duty Durability

Dump trucks do more than highway cruising. You want a clutch that stands up to stop-start driving, idling under load, and low-speed crawling on uneven ground.

✅ Drop-In Fitment

The 1974 small block uses an 11” or 12” clutch disc, usually with a 10-spline input shaft (most common with SM465 transmissions). Always confirm fitment with your specific setup.

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Best Clutch Kits for 1974 Chevy 5.7 Dump Trucks

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1. LuK 04-021 Clutch Kit

(Best OEM-Style Replacement)

Why it’s great:
LuK makes OEM clutches for GM, and this kit is perfect for stock or near-stock trucks. It’s reliable, easy to install, and feels just like factory.

Includes:

• Pressure plate

• Organic full-face clutch disc

• Pilot bearing & throwout bearing

• Alignment tool

Highlights:

• Smooth engagement

• Ideal for trucks with mild use or weekend hauling

• Great price for the quality

Best for: Original 350 dump trucks with no major mods

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2. RAM HDX 88794HDX Clutch Kit

(Best for Work Trucks and Towing)

Why it’s great:
RAM’s HDX series is designed specifically for work and tow vehicles that need stronger grip and more clamping pressure than stock.

Specs:

• 11” organic disc

• High-clamp load pressure plate

• Handles up to 450 ft-lbs of torque

• Works with stock flywheel

Highlights:

• Strong holding power

• Still daily-driver friendly

• Durable for repeated loads and long idle times

Best for: Dump trucks used for daily hauling, landscaping, or light construction

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3. Centerforce II Clutch Kit CF360056

(Best Mid-Level Performance Option)

Why it’s great:
The Centerforce II uses centrifugal weights that increase clamping force with RPM, meaning more grip as engine speed rises—ideal for dump trucks that pull hard from stoplights.

Specs:

• Organic full-face disc

• Patented pressure plate design

• Increased torque capacity with factory pedal feel

Highlights:

• Smooth starts, no chatter

• Good for trucks with headers or mild cam upgrades

• Balanced performance and comfort

Best for: Drivers who want more performance with stock drivability

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4. McLeod Street Pro 75105 (Optional Kevlar Upgrade)

(Best for Modified Engines or High Torque)

Why it’s great:
Got a built 350 with a bigger cam, upgraded intake, or headers? McLeod’s Street Pro is designed for mild performance trucks that still need a street-friendly pedal.

Specs:

• Organic or optional Kevlar disc

• Pressure plate built for strength and heat resistance

• Handles 400–500 ft-lbs torque

Highlights:

• Strong grip, no slippage

• Tolerates heavy loads and aggressive driving

• Optional Kevlar lasts longer under load

Best for: Performance-built dump trucks used for towing, plowing, or aggressive use

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Quick Comparison Chart

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Flywheel & Install Notes

• Most 1974 Chevy 350s use an 11” clutch with a 153- or 168-tooth flywheel.

• Match your clutch to your flywheel diameter and bolt pattern.

• Always resurface or replace the flywheel when installing a new clutch.

• Replace pilot bushing/bearing and throwout bearing to avoid future labor.

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Final Thoughts

The best clutch for your 1974 Chevy 5.7 dump truck depends on how you use it:

• For smooth OEM feel and daily work: Go with the LuK 04-021

• For towing and heavy loads: Step up to the RAM HDX

• For torque and mild upgrades: Choose the Centerforce II

• For modified builds that work hard: Go with McLeod Street Pro

Whatever you pick, make sure your installation is clean, components match, and break-in is done right. A good clutch keeps your truck working stronger, longer—and ready to haul whatever comes next.