Manual Transmission and Clutch
The primary function of the clutch system is to engage and disengage engine power to the transmission on driver command. For additional information, refer to CLUTCH .
The clutch is a single-plate, dry friction clutch disc. The clutch disc has a splined hub with integral torsional dampening springs, which attaches the clutch disc to the input shaft.
Engine output is coupled to the input shaft by friction existing between the clutch disc facings and the flywheel/clutch pressure plate assembly. The extent of this friction is directly related to the composition of the facing material and the magnitude of the clamping force exerted by the clutch pressure plate. These factors limit the amount of torque that can be transmitted without slippage.
The clamping force is obtained from the diaphragm spring contained within the clutch pressure plate assembly. This clamping force is developed during the attachment of the clutch pressure plate to the flywheel.
The clutch system is disengaged when the clutch pedal is depressed and engaged when the clutch pedal is released. When the clutch pedal is depressed it pushes the clutch master cylinder plunger, which hydraulically actuates the clutch slave cylinder. This in turn actuates the clutch pressure plate diaphragm spring, releasing pressure on the clutch disc, which eliminates the engagement between the transmission and the engine.