Midwest Transmission Center

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How a Clutch Works

For a description of specific clutch elements see the figure on the right1) Transmission input shaft 2) Transmission input bearing 3) Clutch release bearing sometimes referred to as throughout bearing 4) Pilot bearing in the back of flywheel 5) clutch disc lining and 6) clutch fork, 7) Flywheel. When the disc moves away from the flywheel, power flow from your engine to the transmission is interrupted. The engine crankshaft and flywheel are rotating at a higher speed than the disc and transmission input shaft that are coasting. When the clutch is engaged, the disc slips briefly to supply smooth engagement and once again, the clutch clamps the disc up against the flywheel. This causes the inputshaft to turn transmitting engine power to the transmission. The most important factor in clutch design is the disc materials; Luk clutches use precisely formulated lining with much better efficiency and longer life guaranteed.