Repair and Diagnosis: Transmission: Clutches: Description

The hydraulic clutch consists of a driven plate, pressure plate, a diaphragm-type spring, and a release bearing. The driven plate is splined onto transmission clutch shaft so that it can move back and forth when clutch is disengaged and turn the shaft when clutch is engaged.

The driven plate has friction pads riveted to both sides and has a flexible center with springs to absorb vibration. The pressure plate has a machined surface that fits against the driven plate and a diaphragm-type spring mounted in a cover on the pressure plate.

The spring holds the pressure plate and driven plate together against the flywheel when clutch is engaged. The release bearing rides on a sleeve that pushes in on center of diaphragm spring, releasing pressure on the pressure plate and driven plate to disengage clutch.

The hydraulic clutch has a master cylinder with a separate reservoir. The clutch pedal moves master cylinder push rod and a secondary cylinder at the clutch housing moves clutch fork and release bearing.