Southbend clutch here as well, years back ACT was the clutch brand of choice for DSMer's but I think a lot have since switched to Southbend. Have heard of ACT having quality control issues more often over the last few years as well.

I run the TZ/FE setup from Tim Zimmer (www.tmzperformance.com) & the SS pressure plate. Close to stock feel & engagement, run 32psi daily on a 35R, ~25K miles on it so far.

Even if the flywheel is new, measure the step height as even the ACT flywheels can be off from new (ask me how I know ). You'll want the step height at least .610, flat across the whole surface.