Description & Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Ranger, 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, 2002 Ford Explorer Sport, and 2002 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The manual transmission has a tag to identify assemblies for repair purposes. The clutch master cylinder transmits fluid pressure to the clutch slave cylinder, which in turn moves the clutch release hub and bearing. The clutch hydraulic system uses brake fluid and has a separate reservoir. The clutch is a single plate, dry-friction disc with a diaphragm-style spring clutch plate.

The clutch disc has frictional material where it contacts the flywheel and the clutch plate. The clutch plate applies pressure to the clutch disc, holding it tightly against the surface of the flywheel. In the engaged position, the clutch plate diaphragm spring holds the clutch plate against the clutch disc, so that the engine torque is transmitted to the input shaft.

When the clutch is depressed, movement is transmitted through the clutch hydraulic system, which actuates the clutch release hub and bearing. The clutch release hub and bearing pushes on the spring center towards the flywheel. The diaphragm spring pivots at the fulcrum, relieving the load on the clutch plate. Steel spring straps riveted in the clutch plate cover pull the clutch plate from the clutch disc, disengaging the engine torque from the transmission.