American Powertrain is introducing a softer approach to clutch discs and continues to expand its X-Factor aluminum crossmember line. Other new products found in the Tennessee-based company’s SEMA booth include the White Lightning shifter and a hydraulic clutch system for Mustangs.

Called the Iron Grip, the new clutch disc offers two different friction surfaces to improve comfort and performance of the clutch operation. Kevlar sections of the disc engage first, and as they compress the sintered iron sections handle the majority of the torque load.

“It’s a progressive and smooth engagement,” explains Gray Fredrick of American Powertrain, noting that the Iron Grip is available for many popular applications.

New to the X-Factor crossmember family is an application covering the early GM X-body, including the 1968-1974 Nova and Chevy II. The X-Factor is made from T6061 aluminum in either hot-pressed or modular construction. These crossmembers bolt up to the factory mounts holes but support different transmission swaps, including 4-, 5- or 6-speed manuals or a variety of automatics. 

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American Powertrain offers a variety of X-Factor aluminum crossmembers to support transmission swaps in different vehicles.

The mounts weigh half as much as a comparable steel model and come with Grade 8 hardware. They are designed to maintain the vehicle’s correct driveline angle and will clear most oversized exhaust systems. The full X-Factor line covers popular vehicles like the early GM F-body, A-body and B-body in addition to the new X-body, plus there are models for Tri-five Chevys and early Mustangs and Cougars. There’s also a Universal Stretch crossmember to help street rodders and other projects involving engine-transmission swaps.

“Basically, you don’t have to worry about taking measurements,” adds Fredrick, also noting that the crossmembers have been tested up to 1,500 pounds without flex.

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The White Lightning shifters are available for numerous transmissions and allow several adjustments to suit the user.

The White Lightning Revolution shifters are available for TKO, Magnum, T56, T5 and TR-3650 transmissions. They feature hard-annodized billet construction and up to 65 shift positions, thanks to an 8-way adjustable offset available in three lengths. Also, the shifters have centering springs that the user can adjust independently to improve shift patterns. 

“So, you can tailor the 2-3 shift feel to your preferences,” says Fredrick.

American Powertrain also introduced a Hydramax hydraulic clutch system for 1983-93 Mustangs. Key features include aluminum and low-carbon-steel construction, cantilevered firewall mount, easy installation and final 6:1 pedal ratio. Hydraulic-clutch conversions are also available for numerous other applications.