How the clutch works
Cross-sectional view of a single-disc dry clutch
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| A | Clutch disengaged |
| B | Clutch engaged |
| 1 | Flywheel |
| 2 | Clutch disc with friction lining |
| 3 | Pressing ring |
| 4 | Diaphragm spring |
| 5 | Transmission input shaft |
| 6 | Clutch cover |
| 7 | Crankshaft Dimensions |
The clutch transmits the torque from the engine to the transaxle; when the clutch pedal is depressed the power transmission from the engine to the transaxle is interrupted.
When the clutch pedal is not depressed the clutch is engaged. Pressing down the pedal disengages the clutch.
A dry clutch usually only has one clutch disc, the coatings of which are specially designed for dry friction with a higher coefficient of friction. The torque which can be transmitted also depends on the size and number of friction surfaces and the pressing force.
The flywheel and pressing ring are connected to the crankshaft in a rotationally fixed way and transmit the torque via the friction linings of the clutch disc to the input shaft of the transaxle. The clutch disc is clamped between the flywheel and the pressing ring. The force from the diaphragm spring provides the necessary contact pressure.
The clutch cover, pressing ring and diaphragm spring are also referred to jointly as the cover assembly .
The wear on the clutch disc is greatest at the pressure point during engagement of the clutch. If the pressing ring is moved away from the flywheel, there is no longer friction with the clutch disc and the connection is disengaged.
The most frequent damage observed on the clutch is too low friction (sliding) between the clutch disc and the pressing ring or flywheel. This can be caused by oil leaks, friction lining wear or a weakening diaphragm spring.