Clutch

General Information

The models concerned are fitted with a single-plate dry diaphragm spring clutch.

The clutch performs two functions: when a gear is engaged, it disconnects the power link between the engine and the transmission, and when starting off, it provides controlled friction slip to prevent jerky movement.

1 — clutch driven disc
2 — clutch cover
3 — clutch release bearing
4 — clutch release lever
5 — bolt
6 — ball joint
7 — spring clip

The clutch consists of the clutch cover with pressure plate, the driven disc and the release mechanism.

The clutch cover is bolted to the flywheel, which is fixed to the crankshaft flange. The driven disc is located between the pressure plate and the flywheel and is pressed against the flywheel by the pressure plate. The driven disc is centered on the transmission input shaft.

When the clutch pedal is pressed, the release bearing acts on the diaphragm spring of the clutch cover through the hydraulic actuator and the lever. As a result, the pressure plate is released and the driven disc is no longer pressed against the flywheel. The power link between the engine and the transmission is interrupted.

On all models the clutch actuation is hydraulic. The clutch hydraulic system is supplied from the common reservoir with brake fluid.

Each engagement and disengagement of the clutch partially wears the friction surface of the driven disc. The driven disc is a wear part. However, its service life exceeds 100,000 km. Wear depends mainly on the load (towing a trailer) and on driving style. The clutch requires no maintenance. It is self-adjusting.