Tips on Buying a Clutch Kit
Author: superspares
Clutching systems control the transmission of power, allowing the vehicle to move and shift gears smoothly. They engage and disengage by connecting rotating drive and line shafts. The two shafts function as input and output sources of power for the vehicle. The clutch allows the engine to keep running at full stop without disengaging the gears. A clutch kit comprises three basic components: throw-out bearing, clutch disc, and pressure plate. A fully-fledged clutch apparatus includes the flywheel, springs, levers, and linkage.
Most people think that clutch kits are used only for vehicles with manual transmission, but the fact is, all automobiles use clutches, even those with automatic trannies. So whether you drive a stickshift or not, if you notice that your RPM gauge is higher than usual and your vehicle takes a long time to accelerate, you have to replace your old clutch.
With all the products available in the market, choosing the right clutch kit for your vehicle can be tricky. Apart from the differences in specs and features, every kit also varies in application.
Types of Clutches
Most clutch manufacturers place a lot emphasis on simplicity of basic clutch assembly without compromising performance and durability. Use of drive straps has increased over the years in a bid to simplify torque transfer and pressure plate disengagement. Manufacturers employ laser welding to attach drive places to the disc ring in a way that improves heat dissipation.
|
Type |
Characteristics |
|
Multiple Plate Clutch |
Features multiple driving components Suitable for racing cars, motorcycles, and locomotives |
|
Wet and Dry |
Wet clutches employ cooling lubricating fluid to boost durability Multiple discs needed to counteract slipping caused by wetness Dry clutch does not make use of cooling lubricating fluid |
|
Centrifugal Clutch |
Suitable for applications in which speed dictates clutch status Features clutch shoes to control component status when idling |
|
Cone Clutch |
Comprises conical friction surfaces for smooth gear changes |
|
Torque Limiter |
Allows clutch slipping when excessive resistance is experienced Slipping prevents engine damage due to abnormal torque transfer |
|
Non-slip Clutches |
Torque transfer occurs during engagement and disengagement Prevents damage in non-synchromesh transmissions |
How to Replace Your Car's Busted Clutch
Having trouble shifting gears? Notice any slipping or grinding sounds from the engine during acceleration? If your answer is yes, then your clutch has probably gone south. When this happens, make sure you switch it as soon as possible-get a new clutch kit. Driving with a damaged clutch system does not only affect vehicle performance, it may also put lives in peril.
Before deciding to install this component by yourself, make sure you have a detailed manual to help you out in the task. Improper replacement of the clutch may damage your transmission permanently, so be sure you are experienced enough to do this on your own.
Tools:
- Jack
- Hoist
- Clutch cover gasket
- Clutch springs
- Clutch alignment tool
- Screwdriver
- Scraper
- Pry bar
- Different sizes of wrenches
- Pipe gaskets
Step 1: Use the screwdriver and wrenches to disconnect all the exterior parts around the clutch, including the negative battery cable, clutch cable, exhaust pipes, speedometer, hydraulic cylinder hose, etc.
Step 2: Grab the jack and lift your vehicle to access the transmission system. Use the hoist to support the engine or spread the load by putting the jack under the oil pan and using a piece of wood.
Step 3: Remove the busted clutch by taking out the transaxle, pressure plate, flywheel, and clutch disc. Take note of the marks on the components to index them properly. Make sure there is no sign of leaking around the engine seal, and that the needle bearings are properly lubricated.
Step 4: Clean the area around the crankshaft. Get your clutch kit and install the new components: flywheel, clutch disc, pressure plate, etc. You can use the clutch alignment tool to check that the parts are properly aligned.
Step 5: Re-install all the components you removed: transaxles, bolts, mounts, hoses, gaskets, cables, etc. Once everything has been set to place, lower your vehicle.
Step 6: Turn on the engine. Check your clutch pedal and perform a road test to see if gear shift and acceleration improved.
Conclusion
The clutch is located between the engine and the transmission. It transfers mechanical energy to the gearbox. Over time the clutch will wear down. This is especially true if you live in an area with highly congested traffic that requires you to regularly stop and change gears. As a result, you may notice a change in your vehicle speed while driving, or even clutch slippage whilst on the road. When this happens, you will need to buy a clutch kit and replace the entire system. The clutch kit will include all the components necessary, such as the clutch (hub, cover plate, and rivets), fly wheel, friction surfaces and pressure plate. Luckily, it’s easy to buy a clutch kit online, and you can replace it relatively easily.
