How to Build a Four-Shoe Clutch for Your Nitro RC Vehicle
By Jacob Hardison | Adrenaline RC Racing
If you're running nitro, your clutch setup can make or break your race day. In this week’s video, I walk through how to properly build a four-shoe clutch—specifically using a ProTek clutch setup—to ensure smooth power delivery and reliable performance on the track.
Whether you're new to nitro or just looking for a refresher before the warm weather hits, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you need and how to build your clutch correctly.
🔧 Tools & Materials You’ll Need
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Four-shoe clutch kit (ProTek, TLR, AE, or Tekno compatible)
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Flywheel, collet, clutch shoes, springs, pins
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Clutch bell, shims, bearings, mounting screw
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Tools: 2mm & 2.5mm hand drivers, channel locks, nut driver
Tip: Lay down a microfiber towel to keep parts from rolling away.
🛠 Step-by-Step Assembly
1. Mount the Collet & Flywheel
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Slide the collet onto the crankshaft and seat it back.
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Install the flywheel and thread on the clutch nut.
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Use channel locks (with a rag if needed) to tighten the nut securely.
2. Install the Clutch Shoes
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Use 0.95 springs with carbon shoes, 1.0 springs with aluminum shoes (standard smooth setup).
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Line up the spring ends with the holes in the flywheel and shoes.
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Insert pins through the shoe and spring, then secure with your driver.
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Alternate the shoes: carbon, aluminum, carbon, aluminum.
3. Set Up the Clutch Bell
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Install one bearing into the clutch bell and one directly onto the crankshaft.
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Slide the clutch bell on and test for independent movement from the flywheel.
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If the clutch bell and flywheel move together, add shims behind the clutch bell one at a time until they move independently.
4. Final Fitment & Shimming
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Thread the mounting screw into the end of the crankshaft.
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Check the outer gap: you want a small visible gap that allows for thermal expansion.
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Add outer shims as needed to maintain that spacing—especially if using a thinner collet than intended.
✅ Pro Tips
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Always double-check your final clutch bell spin—it should rotate freely without dragging the flywheel.
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If you’re unsure about spring tension or shoe placement, start with the standard 0.95/1.0 setup for consistent on-track feel.
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Over time, clutch gaps may loosen with wear. Recheck when replacing shoes or bearings.
🔁 Watch the Full Tutorial
Got Questions?
Leave a comment on the video or shoot us a message—we’re always happy to help you dial in your setup. Stay tuned for more nitro tech tips coming soon to the Adrenaline RC Racing channel!