ABSTRACT
A clutch is a device for disconnecting and connecting rotating shafts. In a vehicle with a manual gearbox, the driver pushes down the clutch when changing gear, thus disconnecting the engine from the gearbox. It allows a temporary neutral position for gear changes and also a gradual way of taking up drive from rest. The clutch is always fitted between the engine and the transmission. A steel clutch cable, which runs inside a plastic-coated steel tube, is used on most cars. The clutch consists of two main parts, a pressure plate and a driven plate. When the clutch is engaged, the pressure plate, inside the cover, presses the driven plate against the engine flywheel. This allows drive to be passed to the gearbox. Pushing down the clutch pedal moves the pressure plate away, which frees the driven plate. The clutch disc has frictional material riveted or bonded on both sides. These frictional facings are either woven or moulded.
