Clutch 2

Overview of Clutch Discs

• Differences between clutch discs are categorized based on construction material and operational characteristics.

Types of Clutch Discs

• Ceramic Button Disc

  • Advantages:

  • Better heat management and heat dissipation.

  • Higher coefficient of friction compared to organic discs.

  • Provides more gripping power and 'bite' than a full-face organic additional friction disc.

• Organic Full Face Disc

  • Comparison:

  • Generally offers a smoother engagement but can’t handle heat as effectively as ceramic.

Components of the Clutch System

• Clutch Assembly

  • Composed of the following elements:

  • Clutch Cover: This is the input member connected to the input shaft of the transmission.

  • Pressure Plate: Provides clamping force, using various mechanisms such as springs (bell springs, angled springs, or other types).

  • Friction Discs: Intermediate plates and friction surfaces against the flywheel, essential for transmitting power through clamping and friction.

Clutch Operation

• Engaging and Disengaging Clutch

  • When the clutch pedal is pressed:

  • Release forks rotate as they contact the release bearing, disengaging the clutch.

Importance of Proper Assembly

• Proper orientation of clutch components is crucial.

  • Discusses how components should be oriented and reassembled to maintain balance and functionality.

• Clutch Release Forks and Bearings

  • The release forks function based on mechanical leverage to engage the release bearing,

  • A 'push-type' mechanism where pressing the pedal disengages the clutches.

Clutch Brazing and Adjustment

• Regular checks on clutch brake systems are essential for optimal functionality.

• Clutch Brake Functionality:

  • Engaging the clutch brake involves depressing the pedal fully as long as there's no wheel speed.

  • Risks of prematurely engaging the clutch brake under power input from the drivetrain can lead to gear grinding.

Clutch Adjustment Specs and Measurements

• Important dimensions to note include:

  • Distance between forks and the release bearing of about 8 inches.

  • Desired clearance is 0.5 - 1 inch between the release bearing and the clutch brake when the clutch pedal is pressed down.

• Visual Indicators:

  • Use of feeler gauges to determine clearances and necessary adjustments in braking pressure and travel.

Internal Adjustments and Free Travel

• Increasing free travel in the clutch pedal may involve adjusting the release bearing,

  • Free travel definition: The amount of movement of the clutch pedal before it meets resistance is critical for maintaining functionality.

Maintenance of Clutch Components

• Greasability of Components:

  • The release bearing should be serviced without contaminating the friction material prone to grease.

  • A regulated approach towards greasing must involve until it purges but avoid over greasing which may damage surrounding components.

Types of Clutches and Engagement Mechanisms

• Clutch actuation methods:

  • Mechanical Linkage: Traditional method using rods/pivots to actuate parts directly.

  • Hydraulic Mechanisms: More modern approach utilizing hydraulic pressure to create clutch actuation.

  • Cable Actuation: A wire or cable from the pedal to the clutch arm.

• Mechanical vs. Hydraulic Performance:

  • Hydraulic methods often allow for easier pedal engagement due to leverage and pressure dynamics.

Flywheel Types

• Introduction to two primary flywheel types associated with specific clutches:

  • Flat Type Flywheel: Typically hosts a 15.5-inch clutch with components contained within the clutch cover.

  • Pot Type Flywheel: Contains components that sit within the flywheel, requiring a different removal strategy to prevent falling apart during maintenance.

Pilot Bearings and Replacement Techniques

• Importance of the pilot bearing in facilitating a smooth rotation of the input shaft and its operation within the flywheel.

• Utilization of homemade methods like stuffing bread into bearing mounts to hydraulically dislodge problematic pilot bearings is a preventive maintenance measure.