The History of Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT)

ACT performance clutch kit and flywheel graphic featuring Subaru BRZ, WRX STI, Honda Civic Type R, and Toyota Mk4 Supra.

ACT, or more commonly known as Advanced Clutch Technology, has been a powerhouse in the drivetrain industry since 1994. Founded in beautiful California, the brand was born from a passion to push the limits of the import performance world.

The founder, Dirk Starksen, didn’t just start from scratch. He previously honed his craft at Kennedy Engineered Products (KEP), a company famous for engine adapters and transaxles. With that deep technical background, Dirk had a rock-solid foundation for building what would become ACT Clutch.

 

American Made Performance

Much like the legends over at Kooks Headers, ACT is a high-performance, USA-made brand. Every part is designed, crafted, and rigorously tested right here in America. Over the years, Advanced Clutch Tech has evolved into a world-class manufacturer, producing over 2,000 different drivetrain components.

Whether you are looking for a heavy-duty pressure plate, a high-torque clutch kit, or a lightweight flywheel, ACT supports all the top enthusiast platforms, including:

  • Subaru: WRX, STI, and BRZ
  • Mitsubishi: The legendary Lancer Evolution (EVO)
  • Honda & Acura: Civic, Integra, and RSX
  • Toyota: Supra, GR86, and FR-S

 

Component breakdown of an ACT clutch kit showing the heavy duty pressure plate, performance street disc, and XACT lightweight flywheel.

 

Why Elite Race Fab Recommends ACT

If you are in the market for a new performance clutch or flywheel, the team at Elite Race Fab highly recommends ACT to handle your power goals.

The beauty of their lineup is the versatility. Whether you are a dedicated drag racer, a road course junkie, or a street racer, they have a kit for you. Even if you just need a reliable daily driver clutch upgrade, ACT offers OEM-plus options that keep your pedal feel smooth while increasing durability.

 

Shop ACT Clutches at Elite Race Fab

We keep a massive inventory of ACT clutch kits in stock and ready to ship. From the Subaru WRX and STI to the Toyota 86 and BRZ platforms, we have the drivetrain solutions you need. Don't just fix your car—make it better with a brand that lives and breathes performance.

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