Car Clutch Functions, Common Components and Problems

For those who have ever driven a manual transmission car, you must be familiar with the clutch. In general, the clutch pedal is on the far left of the brake pedal and not pedal. However, most drivers may not know the function of the car's clutch, especially for those who drive a manual transmission car.


What is a clutch? Why is this component so important for a manual transmission car? Through this article, you can better understand the intricacies of clutches, including the function of a manual car clutch.


What Is the Function of the Clutch in a Car?


The car clutch is a component consisting of many parts that connect the transmission gears and the crankshaft so that the rear wheels of the vehicle can move. In other words, the function of the car clutch is as a component that connects or disconnects the engine speed to the transmission system.


Not only that, there are several other functions of the car clutch. So that you understand better, here is the description.


  1. Disconnect and Connect Engine Power to the Wheels


Car clutch lining also functions to disconnect and connect engine power to the wheels via the transmission.


  1. Lifting Machine


The function of the car clutch is to lift the engine when the car is moving. Thus, the movement of the car will be smoother and smoother.


  1. Easier to Shift Gears


The car clutch also plays a role in facilitating vehicle performance when the driver shifts the car's gear. This shift will become smoother as the car starts to run or is used.


  1. Help Stop the Car Without Turning Off the Engine


In addition to what has been described above, the function of the car clutch is also to stop the car without the driver needing to turn off the engine. When the vehicle is in traffic jams or red lights, this is very useful.


  1. Boost Vehicle Performance


The car clutch serves to support the performance of the vehicle and engine so that it can work optimally.


  1. Support Brake Performance


There is one more function of the manual car clutch, which is to increase the vehicle's brake performance, especially when the driver needs to brake suddenly or in an emergency.


Get to Know Car Clutch Components


In order for the car's clutch function to run optimally, the parts related to the clutch also need to work properly. Therefore, you as a car owner need to know the components in the car clutch to make it easier to understand how it works.


clutch Pedal or Clutch Pedal


The first part of a car clutch is the clutch pedal. Its function is as an input component that will control the clutch. The way this component works is like a lever.


At the base of the pedal has a hinge that is connected directly to the push rod. Pedals will be adjusted in height according to the needs of the rider.


Clutch Master Cylinder


In order for the clutch function on the car to run properly, a clutch master cylinder component is needed. This is a component that will work to convert mechanical energy into hydraulic pressure when the pedal is pressed. There are two parts to this component, namely the upper and lower clutch master cylinders. The upper part is connected to the push rod so that it is able to receive direct pressure from the clutch pedal.


While the lower clutch master cylinder will receive pressure which will be channeled by the clutch oil. Only after that the pressure is channeled to the freeing fork or fork as a driving medium.


release Bearing


This component will work to distribute the pressure that comes from the release fork or actuary cylinder. The goal is that the pressure can be used to compress the diaphragm spring. Its physical form is like a thick ring.


clutch Cover


In the form of a clutch cover that functions as a housing for several diaphragm springs and pressure devices. This cap is connected to the flywheel and will rotate when the flywheel moves.


flywheel


In order for the clutch function on the car to run properly, it is necessary to need a flywheel. This is a plate that will function to provide input rotation from the car engine.


pressure Plate


A plate that serves to continue the pressure to the diaphragm spring from the clutch lining. Its form is a disc of iron and there is a hole in the middle.


Clutch Spring


The part whose function is to suppress the pressure plate so that it continues to stick to the clutch plate. There is a diaphragm type clutch spring, there is also a coil spring type.


release Lever


This is a plate-shaped component. Its function is to pry the pressure plate off the clutch plate.


Common Problems That Interfere with Car Clutch Function


Like other components in a car, car clutches are also prone to damage. In fact, there are several common problems that can interfere with the functioning of a car's clutch. If some of these things happen to your car, don't delay going to the repair shop.


  1. Slip ( clutch Slip )

Car slipping can occur because there is wear on the surface of the clutch plate. In addition, this can also occur due to exposure to grease or oil so that the friction coefficient of the plate decreases. This condition could make the car's clutch function imperfectly when transferring power from the engine. In other words, the car can lose power and cannot go fast. In the end, this can also cause the car to waste fuel.


  1. Vibration or Rough Friction Appears


For owners of manual transmission cars, has your car ever experienced rough vibrations or friction? If so, this can happen when the clutch component does not connect smoothly and the car seems to vibrate. The causes can vary, whether due to the clutch plate, the sun, or an uneven flywheel.


  1. There Is a Rattling Sound When the Transmission Gear Is Shifted


Another condition that characterizes a problem that interferes with the function of the car's clutch is a rattling sound when the transmission gear is moved. If you find something like this, the problem usually comes from a worn clutch plate, or a plate that doesn't return properly, when the pedal is pressed (it stays in contact with the flywheel). The transmission gear will be difficult to move, even if you can it will make a rough sound (crackling).


So, those were some of the conditions that could be a sign that there is a problem that interferes with the car's clutch function. If the car experiences the above conditions, you need to immediately take it to a repair shop.


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