Different Clutch Engagement After Tire Change

jbrueshaber

I own a 2012 370z sports package model that I drive daily. I have owned the car since 06/15/12, and have put slightly over 18,xxx miles on the odometer in a little over 8 months. My Z is on the road a lot. On Tuesday, 02/19/2013, I installed my BC BR coilovers by myself with no problems whatsoever after work (BTW, I made a how-to video on the coilover install coming soon to the DIY thread). Drove the car the rest of the week with no problems. Then I had my original Potenza tires replaced on Saturday, 02/23/13, with Nitto Invo's. Went up one size to a 255/35/19 front and a 285/30/19 rear. Now, I noticed after the tire change that my clutch feels completely different. My Z of course is losing traction under moderate acceleration with my VDC engaging due to the mold release agent on new tires. I know that is completely normal. But the engagement of the clutch feels completely different. The clutch is engaging much lower than before and during some shifts it feels as if it wants to catch halfway up, so when I release the clutch fully it pops up to the disengagement top position. I really am confused. I have previously owned a 2003 350z and a 2008 350z both of which were 6 MT's driven daily with no clutch issues at all. Could the coilover install affect my clutch engagement? Car is only lowered 1" all the way around. I was going to wait another two weeks before having the car realigned to allow the new suspension time to fully settle. Could the change in tire size cause a complete difference in clutch engagement? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!