What is the purpose of the clearance between the clutch release bearing and the release lever?
2 Answers
As the clutch friction disc wears, the release lever will eventually tilt and press against the release bearing, causing the release lever to be under pressure. This can lead to incomplete separation of the original clutch friction disc and poor engagement. The clearance between the clutch release bearing and the release lever is designed to compensate for the effects of friction disc wear, ensuring reliable clutch engagement. This clearance is reflected in the clutch pedal as a free travel. Below are the correct methods for operating the clutch: 1. Starting the car: When starting the car, quickly depress the clutch pedal and then rapidly release it to the semi-engaged state. At the same time, slightly press the accelerator to increase the engine speed, then slowly and gently lift the clutch pedal. Pause slightly when reaching full engagement. 2. Downshifting: First reduce the car's speed until it reaches the appropriate speed for downshifting, then quickly depress the clutch pedal. Follow the principle of "one fast, two slow, three engagement" to control the clutch. 3. Upshifting: Increase the throttle to raise the engine speed, then quickly depress the clutch pedal and gently and slowly release it. You can slightly press the accelerator during the process of gently releasing the clutch. 4. Stopping the car: Depress the clutch pedal when the car's speed is below 15 KM/H, then use the brake to bring the car to a complete stop. After the car has fully stopped, slowly release the clutch pedal.
Over the years I've worked in the auto repair shop, that clearance between the clutch release bearing and the release lever is no small matter. It's primarily a protective gap that keeps the bearing from touching the lever when you're not pressing the clutch, preventing excessive wear or heat damage from constant friction. Without this clearance, the bearing would constantly press against the lever, leading to premature clutch failure, and you might feel vibrations or strange noises when shifting gears. Also, as the car heats up during operation, components expand - this gap accommodates thermal expansion to prevent excessive pressure that could deform parts. When adjusting, you need special tools to measure the distance, typically aiming for 0.5 to 1 mm as the ideal range; neglecting this can also quietly increase fuel consumption. I've encountered many car owners complaining about stiff or loose clutch pedals, and most issues can be resolved by adjusting this clearance properly.
