What can I do to determine whether my clutch is in need of replacement? This blog will explore how the clutch functions and what indicators you may observe, feel or hear that might indicate the need of a clutch replacement.
What is a Clutch and how does it work?
The job of a clutch is to transmit power from the engine to the gearbox, and then, it transfers the power to your wheels.
When a car is under the power of (clutch pedal is released) then the clutch is activated. The power from the engine is transferred to the engine’s flywheel and causes the flywheel to turn. The flywheel spins and spins the plate that is used for clutch. The clutch plate spins the shaft driven (also called”the gearbox shaft,” or primary shaft) and causes that the gearbox to rotate. This turns around and spins the driveshaft before casing the wheels of the vehicle. This causes them to spin.
If the pedal for clutch is pulled, it disengages it from the flywheel, effectively disconnecting the engine from gearbox. It allows you to choose the gears or stop the car without the car lurching or stopping. In essence, the clutch allows us to easily connect a spinning engine to the non-spinning mode. It is able to control the amount of slippage that occurs between them.
Parts for Clutchs
The most important components of a clutch include the drive wheel, pressure plate, and the release bearing. However, there are clutch slave cylinders as well as master cylinders of the clutch on vehicles equipped with a hydraulic clutch system.
Clutch Wear
The flywheel for the clutch, the pressure plate, the clutch disc (friction liner) as well as the release bearing all are susceptible of wear and tear with time. Particularly, the clutch disc that is constructed from the same friction material to that of a brake pad. The plate creates an interface between the pressure plate and flywheel, and will wear down with time. If you’ve ever smelled an out of the clutch it’s the material you smell, and it could be a sign that it was overheated.
How long should the clutch last?
It is largely dependent on the driving style. Most clutches are built to last around 60-70 miles before needing replacement. They may require replacement at 30000, while others may continue to last well beyond 100,000 miles, however this is not common.
A Sign Your Clutch Could need to be replaced
If you are experiencing any of the signs listed below, the clutch could need to be replaced:
Slipping Clutch
This is when you have to boost the engine’s power to get the car moving. You’ll notice that your engine is rumbling but it isn’t moving as quickly in comparison to the normal. This is usually due to the lack of power. It is typically caused by the fact that the friction plate on the clutch wears down and causes it to spin in opposition to the flywheel, however it may not reach full contact with it.
Difficulty selecting gears
If you need to force your car to shift into gear,, this is usually due to a worn clutch plate , or an old master or clutch slave
Sound of a gurgling or squeaking when you press the pedal for the clutch
It is possible to detect the change in tone as you push the clutch pedal. This typically is heard as a rumble. One of the causes of this could be due to worn bearings on the release.
Clutch Judder
When you remove the clutch pedal as well as the pedal, or perhaps the car is agitated. This could be an indication of a damaged clutch, an issue with the flywheel or pressure plate.
Clutch Pedal remaining in place when the pedal is depressed
If you push the clutch pedal, and it fails to return to its initial position. This could mean that there is an issue in the bearing for release or slave cylinder, or master cylinder.
Dual Mass Flywheel
The cost of replacing clutches has increased in recent years due to the advent of dual Mass Flywheels. They are often required to be replaced in the same way as the standard three-piece clutch kit. The Dual Mass Flywheels in actual two flywheels which come with a set of springs that be used like vibration absorbers. This is to provide reduced noise, improved satisfaction for the driver and passengers, as well as a longer lifespan for transmissions.
If you encounter any of these issues or other issues related to the vehicle’s drive, get in touch with us as soon as you can time to avoid total the loss of driving. If you don’t address the issue, your clutches they can fail completely leaving you without a vehicle.
Clutch Repair Costs
The cost for replacing the clutch will vary based on the type of issue and the type of vehicle you’re driving. If you suspect there could be any issue with your clutch, make an appointment an appointment for a free clutch Test now. Our experts in clutch fitting will tell you what needs to be done and the cost prior to any work being completed or any costs are to be incurred.
