Our Turn 14 Distribution team knows that manual transmissions are more than just a way to drive. They provide a connection to the vehicle, the terrain, and the experience. For those of us who still prefer to row through the gears ourselves, there’s no substitute for the mechanical feedback and control a manual transmission offers. Unfortunately, that connection is disappearing fast, especially in the truck segment.

In 2025, only two midsize pickups will offer a manual transmission: the Toyota Tacoma and the Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep Gladiator is off the list. For us and many drivers, it’s a missed opportunity to support the enthusiast community that helped put the Gladiator on the map in the first place.

Worse yet, the manual-equipped Gladiators from 2020 to 2023 didn’t just fade out quietly; they were hit with one of the most frustrating recalls in recent memory. Over 69,000 Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler models were recalled due to failures tied to a factory-installed dual-mass flywheel. Under high-load conditions, their clutches were prone to overheating, fracturing, and, in some cases, even creating a fire risk.

The manufacturer’s so-called “fix” was a software patch that limited RPMs, which we all could agree is not a solution for performance-minded drivers. Eventually, full clutch replacements were offered, but many owners reported the same issues: soft pedal feel, premature wear, and inconsistent engagement. For enthusiasts demanding a real solution, we provide proven clutch upgrade options from trusted brands that deliver the performance and reliability customers expect.

Performance Meets Drivability

XClutch has built a reputation for developing high-performance clutch solutions trusted by enthusiasts and racers. Turn 14 Distribution partners with them to deliver products that address real-world issues with durability and drivability in mind. At the XClutch Stage 1 Clutch Kit’s core is a self-adjusting performance pressure plate that automatically compensates for clutch disc wear, ensuring consistent pedal feel and engagement. This is a significant improvement over the factory system, which is known for its inconsistent performance and premature wear. Paired with this is a high-torque sprung organic friction disc engineered for smooth modulation and forgiving engagement, designed to make daily use much more enjoyable.

Completing the package is a custom-engineered single mass flywheel explicitly designed for this application. The XClutch flywheel increases mass and has a larger diameter to boost rotational inertia. This translates to better throttle control, smoother crawling off-road, and improved low-speed drivability for the end user, while still keeping street driving crisp and highway pulls strong.

The result is exactly what Jeep Gladiator owners have been waiting for: a comprehensive clutch solution rated to handle demanding off-road use and high torque output, without compromising drivability. Whether navigating daily commutes or challenging steep terrain, the XClutch Stage 1 Kit offers durability, control, and consistency that the factory system lacked, resolving known issues with precision, not compromise.

A Closer Look at Installation

Installing the XClutch Stage 1 Clutch Kit on the Jeep Gladiator is a technically involved job best suited for experienced technicians or well-equipped shops. For this, we turn to our trusted partners at R/T Tuning in Montgomeryville, PA. The process requires transmission removal, so a vehicle lift is highly recommended to ensure access and safety. On average, the process takes 6 to 8 hours, depending on experience and equipment. Per the instructions, a minor modification to the clutch fork is required to align the throw-out bearing properly. No additional fabrication or tuning is necessary, but proper alignment tools and torque specs must be followed to ensure long-term performance.

The Upgrade Drivers Deserve

This purpose-built upgrade delivers where the factory clutch system came up short. The XClutch Stage 1 Clutch Kit is engineered to meet real-world demands off-road, daily driving, and long-haul reliability. Whether enthusiasts are crawling through technical terrain or navigating stop-and-go traffic, this kit delivers a crisp, consistent pedal feel, smooth progression, and a drivetrain that responds with confidence.

With our team member’s Gladiator running this product, we’ve seen firsthand how this kit transforms the driving experience. Off-road, the difference is immediate. Improved modulation and torque delivery give drivers precise control in low-speed, high-load conditions. There is no chatter, no hesitation, just dependable performance when it matters most. On the street, shifts are seamless, engagement stays consistent mile after mile, and the self-adjusting pressure plate ensures the pedal feel remains tight even after extended trail time.

This isn’t just about fixing a known flaw. It’s about restoring driver confidence and enhancing the experience for those who still believe in the value of shifting their own gears. Backed by decades of engineering expertise and real-world testing, XClutch didn’t just solve a problem, they delivered a solution.

Conclusion: A Clutch Built for Those Who Still Love to Drive

In a world where manual transmissions are becoming rarer by the year, we are committed to keeping the driving experience alive for those who still appreciate it. Turn 14 Distribution proudly offers the XClutch Stage 1 Clutch Kit for the Jeep Gladiator — designed specifically for enthusiasts who refuse to settle for Stellantis’ lackluster fix. This upgrade restores confidence in the platform and delivers the responsive, rewarding shift feel drivers expect from a purpose-built performance solution.