What to Do When the Clutch Gets Wet?
4 Answers
Clutch gets wet processing method is: through the hole in the ring gear to dry it, clutch gets wet after the friction decreases, the transmission torque decreases. Clutch use precautions are: 1, the clutch must be cleaned before installation, remove anti-rust grease and debris; 2, the clutch can be installed coaxially, can also be installed in separate shafts, the axial must be fixed; 3, wet electromagnetic clutch work in the friction plate between the lubricating oil; 4, power supply and control lines, clutch power supply is DC 24 volts; 5, jaw-type electromagnetic clutch installation, must ensure that there is a gap between the end teeth, so that there is no friction phenomenon when idling.
I encountered this issue two years ago! After driving through a waterlogged section during heavy rain, I noticed the clutch pedal felt spongy when pressed, and there was a 'creaking' sound when shifting gears. I tried rapidly pumping the clutch pedal a dozen times to generate friction heat and expel the moisture. An experienced mechanic taught me a folk remedy: rev the engine in neutral to around 3,000 RPM, then quickly depress the clutch to use the engine compartment's heat for drying. But never use a hairdryer to blow-dry it directly—poor sealing could damage electronic components. Afterwards, it's advisable to get maintenance done and check the clutch disc thickness. Now I always try to avoid waterlogged areas, as replacing a clutch three-piece set can cost two to three thousand yuan!
A waterlogged clutch must be addressed immediately! Last time my friend ignored this issue, his pressure plate burned out after just ten days of driving. Stay alert when the pedal feels lighter or abnormal noises occur. My routine is parking on a slope in neutral with the handbrake up, then pumping the pedal a hundred times to let gravity drain the moisture. If clutch slippage occurs (RPM surges without speed increase), stop driving at once. Repair shops use professional dehumidification equipment like wrapping the driveshaft with heating blankets. Remember: never force through water deeper than the wheel hub center - the detour time saved isn't worth the damage.
As an auto repair enthusiast, let me analyze this from a mechanical principle perspective: When a clutch gets flooded, it causes a sudden drop in the friction coefficient. For emergency treatment, I recommend a three-pronged approach—first remove the rubber drain plug at the bottom of the transmission, then start the vehicle in gear and floor the accelerator for 5 minutes (keeping the vehicle stationary), finally check if the release bearing has rusted. Here's a little-known fact: The drain plug on Volkswagen's MQ200 transmission is located near the left driveshaft and is an 8mm hex bolt. If slipping persists after treatment, you may need to replace the water-swollen clutch disc. Reminder: When washing your car, avoid directing high-pressure water jets straight at the transmission cooling vents.
