Multiplate Clutches
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2007 MINI Cooper, 2006 MINI Cooper, 2005 MINI Cooper, 2004 MINI Cooper, and 2003 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
There are two Multiplate wet clutch packs; one forward and one reverse. Each pack has three friction plates providing six friction surfaces. Hydraulic pressure controls the clutches to allow the vehicle to move away smoothly regardless of the degree of throttle opening and by controlling the slip, allow the vehicle to be held stationary after a drive gear is engaged. Oil from the oil cooler is directed to the clutch plates to prevent overheating of the friction surfaces. See Fig 1 .