Hydraulic Clutch Operating Members
For vehicles equipped with push button start in which a clutch malfunction is suspected, always sit in the driver's seat and firmly apply the brake before starting the vehicle. Do not press the "start" button for any reason from outside the vehicle. A vehicle with a malfunctioning clutch could immediately move when started, which could cause personal injury or property damage.
The clutch system consists of the following components:
- A master cylinder with a remote reservoir and with the clutch actuator cylinder front pipe
- A clutch pedal position sensor
- A clutch actuator cylinder
- The clutch pressure plate
- The clutch cover
- The diaphragm spring
- The clutch driven plate
- The torsional springs
With the depression of the clutch pedal, the clutch master cylinder becomes pressurized from the force of the push rod into the master cylinder. This push rod motion forces hydraulic fluid through the hose assembly from the master cylinder to the clutch actuator cylinder. The clutch actuator cylinder then pushes the release bearing into the diaphragm spring to disengage the clutch. A hole in the bulkhead accommodates the master cylinder. A quick connect coupling attaches the clutch actuator cylinder front pipe assembly to the actuator cylinder. The actuator cylinder is inside the transmission and on the input bearing retainer. The master cylinder and clutch actuator cylinder front pipe assembly can be replaced without having to gain access to the clutch system internal components; simply disengage/engage the quick connect coupling mounted through the transmission housing. No adjustments to the clutch system are necessary. As the clutch wears, the fluid level in the clutch reservoir changes to compensate for clutch wear. A new system has fluid in the reservoir. The clutch pedal position sensor on the clutch pedal/bracket assembly has 2 functions. One function (if equipped) is a clutch interlock, ensuring the engine does not start unless the clutch pedal is positioned on the floor. The second function is to cut off the cruise control system, if equipped, when the clutch pedal is pushed downward.