How Clutches Work

A clutch is a mechanical device that provides for the transmission of power (and therefore usually motion) from one component to another when engaged. They can work in a variety of ways and in various pieces of equipment.

The car clutch is an essential piece in its manufacturing. Knowing how it work can help safe and efficient driving styles and avoid stalling or jerking the car.

The car clutch is a clever device made up of two metal plates (rotating shafts) that transfer power from the engine to the gearbox and then over to the wheels, which in turn drives the car.

The reason a car needs a clutch is because the engine spins continuously, whereas the wheels of the car do not. When you press the clutch pedal down the plates come apart. This separates the engine from the drive wheels. At this point, you can change the gear of the car before bringing the pedal back up to re-connect the engine to the drive wheels. The smoother you do this procedure, the less the car will jolt.

A clutch works because of friction between a clutch plate/disc pressed tightly against a flywheel using springs. In a car's clutch, a flywheel connects to the engine, and a clutch plate connects to the transmission.

When your foot is off the pedal, the springs push the pressure plate against the clutch disc, which in turn presses against the flywheel. This locks the engine to the transmission input shaft, causing them to spin at the same speed.

The functioning of the clutch very much depends on how much pressure you apply to it and how quickly or slowly and smoothly you do so.