Is it true that the larger the free travel of the clutch pedal, the more thorough the disengagement?
2 Answers
It is incorrect to say that the larger the free travel of the clutch pedal, the more thorough the disengagement. If the free travel is too large, the distance the release bearing pushes the release lever forward is shortened, and the distance the pressure plate moves backward is also reduced. This prevents the complete release of the clamping force on the driven plate, resulting in incomplete clutch disengagement and difficulty in shifting gears. Therefore, the normal "free travel" not only prevents abnormal wear of the release bearing but, more importantly, ensures reliable engagement and thorough disengagement of the clutch. The reasons for the clutch pedal not returning to its position are as follows: Air in the clutch fluid: This can cause the clutch not to return. Solution: Replace the clutch fluid and bleed the air from the clutch hydraulic line; Faulty return spring: Over time, the return spring may experience reduced elasticity or failure. The symptom is that there is no pressure when the clutch is depressed. In this case, the clutch pedal not returning is not a sudden issue but a gradual process. Solution: Replace the return spring;
I've been driving manual transmission cars for many years, and experience has taught me that clutch free play isn't better when it's larger. On the contrary, excessive free play can actually lead to incomplete disengagement. The clutch pedal free play refers to that initial empty gap when you first press down. If this gap is too large, your actual travel distance when fully depressed becomes shorter, preventing the pressure plate from fully releasing and leaving the clutch disc still engaged with the engine. The result is difficult gear shifting with noticeable clunking sounds during changes. I've seen many novices increase the free play thinking it would make operation smoother, only to experience accelerated clutch disc wear within days, leading to expensive repairs. Actually, the standard free play is specified in the maintenance manual - 25mm to 35mm for new cars, and shouldn't exceed 40mm even with wear over time. If you notice delayed disengagement or slow pedal return during normal driving, it's time to check the free play.
