Although many think it comes down to just one pedal, a clutch kit is a set of parts that make up a far more complex system. A system that is vital for road safety.
Acting as the mechanical linkage between the engine and the gearbox, this kit is vital in getting any car up and running. As such, it must be replaced when it burns or wears out.
Find out the types of clutch kits available and the tools you’ll need to replace one.
What is a clutch in a car?
A clutch is a mechanism that connects a car engine to the gearbox. Its purpose is to transmit the rotation of the engine flywheel to the gearbox gears, which transfers to the differential through the shaft.
The transmission between the flywheel – which is screwed to the crankshaft – and the gearbox takes place through the pressure of the clutch disc against the engine flywheel. How? By compressing the disc against the flywheel of the pressure plate.
Which items are in a clutch kit?
Clutch kits are made up of several parts, each of which has a specific purpose. A clutch kit is usually composed of the following:
- A pedal;
- A clutch disc;
- A pressure plate;
- Springs and lugs;
- A collar (with a thrust bearing containing a central hole through which the primary shaft passes).
What types of clutch kits are there?
Clutch kits are defined by two features: their pressure system and how they are controlled.
What types of clutch kits are there in terms of the type of pressure applied?
With regard to the types of pressure, clutch systems can be:
-
Spring clutch
Spring clutches, in which the springs are responsible for applying pressure, are located on the edge of the clutch disc;
-
Diaphragm clutch
Diaphragm clutches consist of an elastic carbon steel diaphragm;
-
Centrifugal clutch
In centrifugal clutches, which are common in automatic vehicles, the clutch and disengagement work via counterweights operated by the centrifugal force of the engine rotation.
What types of clutch controls are there?
With regard to the types of control, clutch systems can be:
-
Mechanical friction clutch
Mechanical friction works by means of a liquid or a cable;
-
Hydraulic clutch
A hydraulic clutch allows an engine to transmit engine power (torque) when it reaches a certain rotation speed;
-
Electromagnetic or power-assisted clutch
An electromagnetic or power-assisted clutch relies on the strength of the electromagnetic field to transmit power (torque).
When should you replace your clutch kit?
You should replace your clutch kit when you feel that the engine does not work properly or produces any symptoms that lead to you suspecting that the clutch system is defective.
Despite there being no consensus on how long a clutch kit’s service life is, experts argue that the expected service life is 100 thousand kilometres.
Excessive use of the clutch system, especially when on uneven ground or carrying out lengthy manoeuvres, causes the clutch to overheat. As a result, an asbestos odour is released, or a burning smell comes from the engine.
What are the symptoms of a damaged clutch kit?
Symptoms that indicate that the clutch is in need of replacement may be detectable while you are driving. These include:
- The car shakes as the speed increases;
- The clutch pedal hardens when using clutch control, for example;
- The clutch pedal is loose;
- Difficulty shifting gears;
- Noisy, sliding clutch;
- High rev count, even when travelling at a constant speed.
Are there clutch kit replacement tools in the KROFtools catalogue?
The KROFtools catalogue contains tools that will help replace a clutch kit in its entirety. Find out what they are.
Brake and clutch bleeding system
This kit works for pressures between 2bar/30psi and a maximum of 5bar/70psi and is ideal for use with ABS systems. In addition, it has a Ø42mm cap with a 90° angled connector suitable for most European cars.
Click on the image to find out more about our brake and clutch bleeding system (Ref.2509)
Universal clutch aligning tool
This is the right clutch aligner to align the clutch kit and its mechanism prior to assembly. It has 14-28mm adapters.
Click on the image to find out more about our Universal clutch aligning tool (Ref.3111)
Universal clutch aligner
Ideal for aligning the clutch of light and small lorries (below 3500cc), this tool is compatible with most vehicles with single-disk transmission systems (manual gearbox) and some vehicles with double-disc systems (automatic gearbox).
Click on the image to find out more about our Universal clutch aligner (Ref.3113).
Clutch Jack 135Kg
Indispensable in any workshop, a jack is a useful tool when replacing a clutch kit. This jack has a 135kg capacity and can be used for heights ranging from 288 to 980mm.
Click on the image to find out more about our Clutch Jack 135Kg (Ref. 4920)
Self Adjusting Clutch Tool Set
This specialised tool is used to compress the self-adjusting clutches in cars manufactured by Audi, BMW, Fiat, Mercedes, Renault, Opel, and Volvo.
Among others, it contains a centring tool and one that can be used to replace the clutch.
Click on the image to find out more about our Self Adjusting Clutch Tool Set (Ref.3112).
Sac Clutch compressor kit
Tool suitable for assembling and disassembling SAC clutches with 3/4 holes manufactured by VAG, Mercedes, Opel, Volvo, and Renault.
Click on the image to find out more about our SAC clutch compressor kit (Ref.3118).
Dry Type Transmission Oil-Seal Installer/Remover Set
This tool is specially designed for use in installing/removing sealant from Ford and Volvo dry transmissions.
Click on the image to find out more about our Dry Type Transmission Oil-Seal Installer/Remover Set (Ref.6434)
How much does a clutch kit cost?
It depends on the type of clutch you have in your vehicle. However, a good clutch kit costs an average of 500 euros.
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