Upgrade the weak factory clutch in your 1987-1998 Ford F-250 / F-350 / F-Series 7.3L IDI Non-Turbo / 7.3L IDI Turbo equipped with the ZF5 5-Speed manual transmission using the South Bend 1944-5OR organic single disc replacement clutch kit (no flywheel). Engineered specifically for this engine and transmission combination, this kit delivers smoother engagement, far better holding power, and long-term durability over the original setup.
See the full description below for flywheel details. Rated for approximately 375 hp (Some sources state 400 hp), 800 ft-lbs, 15,000 lbs towing.
The South Bend 1944-5OR is a organic single disc replacement clutch kit built specifically for 1987-1998 Ford F-250 / F-350 / F-Series trucks running the 7.3L IDI Non-Turbo / 7.3L IDI Turbo engine paired with the ZF5 5-Speed manual transmission. This is one of the most critical fitment details on these trucks - the same year and engine combination was offered with multiple transmissions, so always confirm your transmission code before ordering.
The organic friction lining gives you smooth, street-friendly engagement and excellent heat resistance for towing and daily driving. The sprung hub design absorbs drivetrain shock at engagement and protects your transmission and driveline from harsh take-offs.
| Year Range | 1987-1998 |
|---|---|
| Make / Model | Ford F-250 / F-350 / F-Series |
| Engine | 7.3L IDI Non-Turbo / 7.3L IDI Turbo |
| Transmission | ZF5 5-Speed |
| Disc Type | Single Disc |
| Disc Material | Organic |
| Disc Size | 13" |
| Hub Style | Sprung hub |
| Flywheel Included | Required separately (Must use South Bend Solid Mass Flywheel) |
| Hydraulics Included | No |
| HP Rating | 375 hp (Some sources state 400 hp) |
| Torque Rating | 800 ft-lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 15,000 lbs |
| Recommended Use | Street / Tow / Daily Driver |
Ford ZF5 5-Speed fitment notes:
If your 1999+ truck has a 7.3L Power Stroke, you have the ZF6 6-Speed and need the 1944-6 series kit instead.
IMPORTANT - REPLACEMENT KIT ONLY: This part number is a replacement kit and does NOT include a flywheel. It is designed for trucks that already have a South Bend solid-mass flywheel installed. It will NOT work with the factory OEM flywheel. If your truck still has the stock flywheel - or you don't know - choose the matching full kit (the version of this part number that ends in -K, -OK, -OFEK, etc.) instead, or call us before ordering.
Requires conversion to South Bend Solid Mass Flywheel (SMF); will not work with factory Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF). 500-mile stop-and-go break-in required before towing.
If you are seeing any of these symptoms, replace the clutch before further transmission or driveline damage occurs.
1-year / 12,000 miles (Manufacturer defects only) from the date of purchase, covering manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. Applies to the original purchaser only. Proper installation, break-in, and flywheel resurfacing (when reusing a flywheel) are required for warranty validity. For exact terms refer to South Bend Clutch's current warranty policy at time of purchase.
Q: What trucks does the 1944-5OR fit?
A: This kit is designed for 1987-1998 Ford F-250 / F-350 / F-Series with the 7.3L IDI Non-Turbo / 7.3L IDI Turbo engine and ZF5 5-Speed manual transmission. See the application notes above if your year/engine combination came with more than one transmission.
Q: How much power and towing can it handle?
A: South Bend rates this kit for approximately 375 hp (Some sources state 400 hp), 800 ft-lbs, 15,000 lbs towing. Real-world capacity depends on driving style, tune, and supporting modifications.
Q: Is this clutch OK for daily driving?
A: Yes - the disc material and pressure plate are tuned for street-friendly engagement and reasonable pedal effort. Aggressive race-style clutches usually carry the ceramic or full-face puck designation; this kit is built for daily use, towing, and mild performance.
Q: What is the recommended break-in period?
A: South Bend typically recommends 500-1,000 miles of easy, mixed driving with no hard launches or heavy towing so the friction surfaces properly seat. Skipping the break-in can void your warranty.
Q: Do I need anything else to install it?
A: We strongly recommend inspecting and replacing the hydraulic master and slave cylinders, pilot bearing, and checking the throwout bearing fork at the same time. Always use the alignment tool included in the kit. If you are reusing a flywheel, it must be properly resurfaced.
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