Clutch kit: its individual parts and their functioning
When speaking of the clutch, one usually means the disengageable, foot-operated clutch that is commonly used in cars. This clutch comprises a clutch disc and allows to start off and to change gears. The disengageable clutch, which is foot-operated on the car or hand-operated on the motorcycle, located between the engine and the gearbox in motor vehicles is the most well-known design due to its high prevalence. The clutch is a wearing part. When performing replacement, installation of a complete clutch kit is common, including the release bearing and the clutch disc. Sometimes the flywheel is a part of the clutch kit.
Clutch kit: how the flywheel, pressure plate and clutch disc function
There are two ways the clutch functions. When starting, the frictional coupling takes place. This is also called a partial engagement. Yet, when changing gears, the torque transmission should be fully stopped for a few seconds. At this stage, the clutch disengages the engine from the transmission and effectively compensates for the difference in rotational speeds due to smooth engagement and disengagement.
The structure typically consists of the clutch disc which is equipped with ring-shaped friction linings on both sides and is clamped between two discs - the flywheel and the pressure plate (clutch cover). The latter discs are, in turn, attached to the engine crankshaft. The flywheel is rigidly linked to the crankshaft, while the diaphragm spring presses the thrust washer up to the flywheel.
The clutch disc is rigidly installed on the transmission shaft by means of a spline connection. For clutch disengagement, the diaphragm spring requires an axial clamping. This is achieved by pressing the so-called release bearing against the spring, using the clutch pedal. The bearing presses the diaphragm spring thereby removing the pressure plate from the clutch disc as well as the flywheel. Once the clutch pedal is released, the effect reverses.
Customers can purchase a complete clutch kit or corresponding individual parts online at the rexbo auto parts shop.
