Why we have a clutch in the car?
It has been seen that the internal-combustion engine, unlike the steam engine, does not produce high power at low speeds; therefore the engine must be rotating at a speed at which sufficient power is developed, before the drive to the wheels is established.
This condition rules out the use of dog clutch since the connection of rotating engine to a stationary transmission shaft would damage the transmission and jolt the vehicle.
The clutch used must allow the drive to be taken up smoothly so that the vehicle can be gradually moved away from the stationary position.
once moving, it will be necessary to change gear, and so a disengagement of the engine or transmission is required.
This is also is part of the clutch’s function.
These two duties can be performed by various mechanisms; the friction system is considered to be one of the most effective and efficient.
The friction clutch
Function:
The objectives of a friction clutch are:
- to connect a stationary machine part to a rotating part,
- to bring it up to speed,
- to transmit the required power with a minimum of slippage,
- serves as a safety device by slipping when the torque transmitted through it exceeds a safe value, thus preventing the breakage of parts in the transmission train.
The purpose of the automotive clutch:
- to be used in cars with transmission that are shifted by hand (manual transmission),
- it allows the driver to couple the engine to, or uncouple the engine from the transmission.
Location:
OEM 430mm / 17 inch clutch plate hino is located just behind the engine, between the engine and the transmission.
Operation:
The simplest clutch is made up of two plates forced together by powerful springs forming, in effect, one part, linking the engine to the transmission system.
• When the driver depress the clutch pedal he forces the two plates apart, (breaks the connection between engine and transmission).
• When he lets the pedal up again, the two plates come together (connect the engine and transmission).