Previously, Viper clutches from Centerforce were available through only one of their distributors, but now you can get their products through any Centerforce distributor. Their latest Viper clutch series, the Dyad DS (drive system), can help you get the most out of your high-horsepower machine. We got the chance to speak with Will Baty, head of Centerforce’s Marketing and R&D, and discuss the Dyad system in detail.

He stated that one of the highlights of the Dyad DS is that it’s a performance clutch without feeling like one. Providing the perfect blend between performance and streetability, the Dyad DS offers incredible durability and holding power (hanging on even at torque levels as high as 1300 lb-ft), yet provides smooth, quiet shifting.

As stated on the Centerforce website, the definition of the term ‘dyad’ is “two units treated as one” or a “combining power of two.” The Dyad DS exercises this definition quite literally, utilizing a twin-disc setup in which one disc, the ‘drive disc’, is driving the other ‘floating’ disc.

Baty also told us that it uses a positive drive floater, and has a spring-loaded bushing to eliminate the inherent “floater rattle” that comes with it. And according to Baty, the Dyad DS utilizes the same tried-and-true floater design as the 8,000-10,000 horsepower top-fuel racing clutches – so it ought to hold up.

As for how long your clutch system will last you, Will stated that every situation is going to be different. He said that there are a number of things that will determine your particular clutch’s longevity, ranging from gear ratios to assembly weight to driver input.

But Baty told us that while your car’s setup is a contributing factor, the single biggest determinant is the driver. He said that, in an apples-to-apples sort of way, the Dyad system will outlast a single disc setup because it has two discs. But he then went on to explain that slippage is what ruins the clutch, due to excessive heat buildup (“burning out the clutch”), so it’s really all in how you drive it.

Of course, this is true for any clutch system. However, you can rest assured that your Centerforce system will be able to withstand any abuse you throw at it. Baty mentioned that all the company’s testing is done off-road to ensure durability. He explained that if the clutch can hold up to the violent jolts and continuous vibrations of an off-road setting, then it will be more than capable of withstanding punishment on the street.

According to Baty, part of the Dyad DS’s durability comes from its construction using all ARP bolts and fastening components, so you’re guaranteed that quality is holding it together. Will also told us that the system’s sprung hub contributes to its strength.

The sprung hub design offers stress relief versus the rigid hub, which is used in most racing or high-performance clutches. By providing full dampening, the clutch disc splines receive much less trauma and the transmission receives much less vibration than with a rigid hub.

Between the durability, the drivability and the performance, Centerforce’s Dyad drive system finds the perfect balance for you to both dominate the track and cruise the streets. You can find a qualified dealer, or purchase a new clutch for your Viper, through the Centerforce website.