Get to know the Components of a Manual Transmission Clutch

For those of you who are car owners or frequently use manual transmission vehicles, you must maintain and regularly check the condition of your car's clutch. The clutch plays a vital role in the transmission performance of a car's engine. To assess the condition and performance of the clutch, it is essential to examine its various components. Discover more about the components comprising a manual car clutch in our article below!

 

Manual Car Clutch Components

A clutch is a mechanism that functions to connect and release the transfer of power between two objects. To carry out its function, the clutch consists of various components with different functions.  Furthermore, clutches can be classified into various types based on the components and their mechanisms.  Here are the components of a manual car clutch that you need to know:

 

1. Clutch Pedal

The first component included in the core component is the clutch pedal. Its functionality resembles that of a lever, allowing for control over the clutch's performance. The clutch pedal is located inside the car's cabin and parallel to the gas and brake pedals. Specifically, it is positioned to the left of the gas pedal and brake pedal, facilitating the ease of operation for the left foot.

 

At the base of the clutch pedal, there is a hinge that is directly related to the push rod that connects the pedal to the clutch master cylinder piston. You can adjust the clutch pedal height according to your preferences. If you feel that the clutch pedal is too high or difficult to press, you should readjust it. For optimal comfort and performance, it is recommended that the clutch pedal height is adjusted according to your driving style as it will affect clutch function.

 

2. Clutch Master Cylinder

The role of this particular component is to transform the mechanical power generated by the pedal into hydraulic pressure. The clutch master cylinder contains a piston that is connected to the braking system through a brake fluid hose. To prevent the engine from overheating or overheating, the clutch master cylinder also has a water jacket as a cooling water channel. The clutch master cylinder is divided into two sections: the upper clutch master cylinder and the lower clutch master cylinder.

 

The upper clutch master cylinder is directly linked to the push rod, which receives pressure from the clutch pedal. This pressure is subsequently transmitted to the lower clutch master cylinder through a specific fluid or hydraulic fluid. The lower clutch master cylinder is responsible for receiving this pressure and transmitting it to the release fork or release lever.

 

Read Also: How to Care for Manual Transmission of Your Vehicle

 

3. Release Fork

The role of the release fork is to convert the mechanical power from the actuator cylinder into a form that can be transmitted to the release bearing. The performance of this component is similar to the clutch pedal which works as a lever. Release fork has two types, namely long arm and short arm. Long arm type release fork will make clutch performance lighter so that this type is often used in vehicles that carry heavy loads such as trucks and buses. Unlike the long arm type, the short arm type is more commonly used in passenger cars such as MPV and sedan type cars.

 

4. Actuator Cylinder

Actuator Cylinder converts hydraulic power back into mechanical pressure. This component is located in the clutch master cylinder. Within the clutch system, the actuator cylinder is divided into two sections: the outer and inner parts. The outer part is situated outside the clutch housing and is responsible for adjusting the clutch height. Conversely, the inner part is located within the clutch housing.

 

5. Release Bearing

This component has the function of channeling pressure from the release fork or actuator cylinder. This pressure will be used to compress the diaphragm spring. The release bearing is shaped like a thick ring which is connected to the release fork and the diaphragm spring.

 

When the clutch pedal is released, the release bearing returns to its original position and causes the clutch valve to return to its original position so that it can hold the transmission and engine together. If the release bearing is problematic, the clutch performance will not be optimal and it will be difficult to shift gears.

 

6. Hydraulic Clutch Pipe

Hydraulic clutch pipe serves to distribute hydraulic power. This component is in the form of a pipe and is usually made of a flexible, lightweight, and strong material. Given the high pressure of the hydraulic fluid flowing through it, a strong material is chosen as the main component, while the ends of the pipe often incorporate different materials. Commonly, mica or iron is utilized at the pipe's end. Mica is relatively strong and light, but you need to be careful because the material is relatively brittle.

 

Read Also: 4 Best Tips on How To Rent Automatic or Manual Cars

 

7. Clutch Cover

The clutch cover serves as a housing for various components, including diaphragm springs and pressure plates. Positioned over the clutch lining, it is directly connected to the flywheel, causing it to rotate in conjunction with the flywheel's movement. This configuration lets the clutch cover to rotate when the flywheel rotates. The diaphragm spring serves to press the pressure plate when you are not pressing the clutch pedal. Conversely, when you press the clutch pedal, the diaphragm spring pulls on the pressure plate.

 

8. Pressure Plate

This component has the function of pressing the clutch plate and continuing the pressure from the friction plate to the clutch lining so that it is squeezed by the flywheel. The pressure plate is typically a disc-shaped component made of robust cast iron material, featuring a central hole. Its thickness is designed to withstand pressure and ensure durability. Positioned next to the clutch cover and clutch lining, the pressure plate moves in tandem with the flywheel. As the flywheel rotates, the pressure plate also rotates in sync with the clutch primary gear.

 

9. Clutch Plate

The final component of a manual car clutch is the clutch plate. Its primary function is to receive the rotational power from the engine and transmit it to the transmission system. The coping plate is usually made of steel material covered with a padding. This design ensures smooth and efficient transfer of engine rotation, enabling the clutch to function optimally. The clutch plate is positioned between the pressure plate and the flywheel. When the clutch is engaged, the clutch plate is pressed against the pressure plate and flywheel, facilitating the connection of engine rotation. On the other hand, when the clutch is disengaged, the clutch plate separates from the pressure plate and flywheel.

 

 

That is the information about the various manual car clutch components that you need to know. The manual clutch system is indeed quite intricate, and there are several additional components involved, such as the flywheel, pilot bearing, clutch disc, clutch release bearing, clutch master, power clutch, master clutch, and fork clutch. Each of these components plays a specific role within the functioning clutch system. To ensure your car remains in optimal condition, it is advisable to regularly inspect and maintain these various components through regular servicing and cleaning.

 

If your car is experiencing issues or undergoing repairs, you can use a  car rental service. Car rental can make your activities easier, you can also try various types of cars available. One of the trusted car rentals in Jakarta is MPMRent. MPMRent currently has 8 branch offices and 18 representative branches throughout Indonesia. MPMRent has the facility of drivers who are proficient at driving and have long driving hours so you don't need to worry when traveling short or long distances. In addition, MPMRent has 15,000 vehicle fleet variants for both office operational needs and personal needs. MPMRent always ensures that the car is in the best condition for your comfort while driving. Monthly or yearly car rental made easy at MPMRent at the best prices. Please contact the nearest car rental service in your city.