General description

All manual transmission models have a single disc clutch with a diaphragm spring. The clutch cover is bolted to the back of the flywheel.

The friction disc is located between the flywheel and the pressure plate and is put on the grooves on the input shaft of the gearbox. When the clutch is engaged, the diaphragm spring presses the pressure plate against the friction plate, which in turn presses against the flywheel. Rotation is transmitted from the flywheel through the friction disc to the transmission input shaft. When the clutch is disengaged, the pressure plate moves away from the friction plate and the drive to the gearbox is disengaged.

The clutch is operated by a pedal mounted under the dash and a cable connected to the clutch release lever on the gearbox. Depressing the pedal causes the release lever to move the release bearing towards the diaphragm spring pins in the clutch housing. The spring is sandwiched between two rings which act as supports. When the center of the spring moves inward, the outer part moves the pressure plate outward and disengages the clutch.

When the gaskets of the friction disc are worn, the pedal gradually rises relative to the basic position and therefore it is necessary to periodically adjust the height and stroke of the pedal.