What would cause a friction plate to crack?

Lost the ability to get into first, or second or any gear -

pulled the case bolts to reveal the first friction plate cracked... It looks like a new plate --- and the PO had claimed to have recently replaced them with an "upgraded EBC kit"

any tips on what else I should look for after replacing springs and friction plates?

If you were slamming thought gears either way.

If your metals are bent or warped and frictions are straight.....doesn't take much.

Could be a bad plate, to much heat in the plate or clutch. Clutch hanging or slipping just to name a few.

Just set metals on a flat surface and see if warped.

Check main pressure plate and if the clutch basket is free of notches where the plates enter the basket..... this can cause a problem if its notched, will catch the plate if notched.

word. thats what i thought. Metals look good. Shall see how it goes.

Did you happen to notice how many friction plates and steel plates are in there? I believe some aftermarket kits contain an extra pair, but I would think all the plates must be a little thinner for the extra plates to fit. If you decide to replace them I recommend the stock plates as they work great and last MANY miles. Ed