Clutch Check

After removing the assembly, wipe off all dust with a dry rag. Most clutch discs contain asbestos, although some may not. Because asbestos is harmful to health, especially to the lungs, always assume that asbestos is present and take appropriate precautions.

Inspect the friction linings of the clutch disc for wear and missing rivets, and check the disc core for warpage, cracks, broken damper springs and worn splines. The friction surface may be glazed, but if the lining material texture is clearly visible, this surface condition is acceptable. If there is any sign of oil contamination, indicated by a continuous or uneven, glossy black spot, replace the disc and find and correct the source of the contamination. This may be a leaking crankshaft oil seal or transmission input shaft seal, or both. Replace the clutch disc if the linings are worn down to or nearly to the rivet heads.

Inspect the machined surfaces of the flywheel and pressure plate. If they show circular grooving, deep scoring or scratches, replace the parts. Replace the pressure plate if it is cracked, if the diaphragm spring is damaged or its load has decreased, or if the pressure plate surface is excessively warped.

If the clutch is removed, it is advisable to also check the condition of the release bearing.