What Causes Clutch Shudder?
2 Answers
Clutch shudder can be caused by several reasons: 1. Clutch shudder: Let the engine idle, engage a low gear, slowly release the clutch pedal and increase the throttle to start. If the vehicle body shakes at this time, it indicates clutch shudder. 2. Uneven distribution of positive pressure between the driving and driven discs: The uneven spring force of the frequently engaged clutch pressure spring, inconsistent adjustment of the release levers, and/or uneven ends of the diaphragm spring release fingers can lead to asynchronous engagement timing. 3. Weakened damping spring force: The weakened force of the clutch torsional damping spring, the weakened force of the clutch pressure spring, or cracks in the diaphragm spring can all cause the clutch to shudder during engagement. 4. Poor contact of the clutch lining: Poor contact of the clutch lining, surface hardening, or adhesion of sticky substances can easily lead to clutch shudder.
I've encountered clutch shudder several times in my 30 years of driving. The main causes are uneven wear on the clutch disc or flywheel surface, which becomes thinner or warped after prolonged use, leading to severe body vibration when releasing the clutch during starts. Sometimes it's due to weakened pressure plate springs failing to grip the disc properly, or issues like hydraulic system leaks or air intrusion. I often faced this in older vehicles - once while driving a van with noticeable shudder, mechanics found deep grooves worn into the flywheel. Don't ignore these symptoms - they not only make driving uncomfortable but can damage transmission components and increase repair costs. In daily driving, smooth gear changes and avoiding prolonged clutch slipping can reduce wear. If shudder occurs, get it checked professionally immediately. For safety, never attempt long journeys with this issue to prevent accidents. Timely maintenance is crucial - small problems can escalate into major troubles if neglected.
