Clutch Replacement

The Clutch

The clutch is used to transfer the rotation generated in the engine to the gearbox. It attaches to the transmission shaft of the gearbox at one end, and the flywheel of the engine at the other.

Normally, the clutch is ‘disengaged’ – meaning that the pressure plate, friction plate and flywheel spin together, connecting the gearbox to the engine. In order to change gear, the clutch turns independently of the engine, allowing the positions of the gears to change.

When the clutch pedal is pressed, it pushes on the release bearing, which makes contact with the pressure plate.

When the pressure plate is compressed by the bearing, it moves backwards, separating from the friction plate, which remains spinning with the flywheel as the gears are changed.

As soon as the gear has been changed, the clutch pedal is released again, and the pressure plate moves back into contact with the friction plate, restarting transmission to the gearbox.

Most problems with the clutch could be avoided by changing gear properly. Riding (resting your foot on the clutch) or slipping (keeping the clutch pedal down once the gear has been changed) are both common ways the clutch can become damaged.

If you leave your foot on the clutch pedal, even if it is barely down, the clutch will engage slightly, causing the friction plate to rub against the pressure plate. This generates a huge amount of heat, which will damage the friction plate and can also break a dual-mass flywheel.

1. Always make sure your foot is fully lifted off the clutch.
2. Never hold the clutch pedal down once in gear, for example at a red light.
3. Try and change gear smoothly, without jamming or slipping the clutch plate.

As a member of the Good Garage Scheme, you can be confident that the work your car needs will be carried out to the highest standards by highly trained technicians and covered by our 12,000 mile/12-month parts and labour warranty for extra peace of mind.

To find out more about our Clutch Replacement in Kettering, get in touch online or call us directly on 01536 411314