The Function and Operation Method of the Clutch

[LaylaMarie]

The function of the clutch is to smoothly engage or temporarily separate the engine's power from the transmission device, facilitating the driver's operations such as starting, stopping, and shifting gears. Clutch Location: The clutch is located inside the flywheel housing between the engine and the transmission. The clutch assembly is secured to the rear plane of the flywheel with screws, and the output shaft of the clutch serves as the input shaft of the transmission. During driving, the driver can press or release the clutch pedal as needed to temporarily separate or gradually engage the engine and the transmission, thereby cutting off or transmitting the engine's power to the transmission. Clutch Working Principle: The driving and driven parts of the clutch transmit torque through friction between contact surfaces, using liquid as a transmission medium (hydraulic coupling), or magnetic transmission (electromagnetic clutch). This allows the two parts to be temporarily separated or gradually engaged, while permitting mutual rotation during the transmission process.

[JourneyAnn]

When I first got my driver's license, I really struggled with the clutch. Essentially, it acts as a switch between the engine and the wheels. Pressing it down cuts off the power, while releasing it connects them, mainly used during starting, gear shifting, and stopping. For manual transmissions, starting requires slowly releasing the clutch to find the semi-engagement point—feeling the car slightly vibrate before adding gas, otherwise it stalls immediately. Shifting gears requires fully depressing the clutch first to engage the gear; I often forgot this at first, making the transmission clunk loudly. Before stopping, you must also press the clutch to prevent stalling the engine. Honestly, with more practice, it becomes second nature—the key is getting a feel for the clutch engagement point. Also, avoid keeping the clutch pressed at red lights; it's bad for the release bearing.

[DanielLee]

A decade of driving manual transmission tells you that a well-mastered clutch offers more driving pleasure than automatic. When starting, lift the left foot slowly while gently adding throttle with the right foot for a smooth takeoff. For gear shifts, depress the clutch fully before engaging the gear—make it crisp and decisive. The half-clutch state allows creeping speed control, but avoid prolonged use to prevent clutch plate wear. Never coast downhill with the clutch depressed; engine braking is safer. If the pedal feels heavy or slips, the pressure plate likely needs replacement—address it promptly to avoid roadside breakdowns.

[Philip]

From a mechanical perspective, the clutch is essentially two friction discs controlled by a pressure plate for engagement and disengagement. When the pedal is depressed, the release bearing pushes the pressure plate away, disconnecting the power; when released, the pressure plate clamps onto the flywheel to transmit force. The key to operation lies in achieving smooth engagement—the clutch pedal should be released slowly during starts to synchronize the speeds of the flywheel and friction discs. Gear shifts should be as quick as possible to minimize power interruption. Wear primarily occurs on the friction discs, so avoid launch starts and revving the engine while partially engaging the clutch. With proper use, a clutch assembly can last over 100,000 kilometers.

[SimonDella]

Don't worry about driving a manual transmission as a woman, you'll get the hang of it after a few practices. Depress the clutch decisively using the ball of your foot. When starting, slowly release until the car shakes, then gently apply throttle before continuing to release. Remember that high heels make it hard to control pedal pressure - keep a pair of flats in the car. Always press the clutch fully when shifting gears, otherwise you won't engage properly and will damage the gears. For red lights lasting over 10 seconds, shift to neutral instead of holding the clutch. If the pedal feels higher or the clutch slips, check fluid levels first as it might be a hydraulic issue. Practice makes perfect - mastering it brings great satisfaction.