For 1990-2009 cars

The clutch assembly contains the following 5 major components:

• | The flywheel (1)

• | The clutch disc (2)

• | The clutch pressure plate (3)

• | The clutch release bearing (5)

• | The clutch release fork (6)

The clutch disc (2) is a single, dry disc composed of asbestos material which is riveted onto a steel plate (similar to a brake pad). The hub of the clutch disc is splined to the transaxle input shaft. The hub turns the transaxle input shaft when the clutch disc is engaged. The torsional coil springs are placed between the clutch disc and the clutch hub. The torsional coil springs reduce shock upon clutch engagement.

The clutch pressure plate (3) is bolted to the flywheel and turns with the engine. The clutch disc (2) is fitted between the clutch pressure plate (3) and the flywheel (1). The clutch pressure plate is loaded with a diaphragm type spring which maintains constant pressure against the clutch disc and the flywheel when the clutch is engaged. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the clutch release fork (6) pushes the clutch release bearing (5) into the clutch pressure plate spring levers. This releases pressure against the clutch disc and the flywheel, interrupting engine torque to the transaxle. When the clutch pedal is released, clutch pressure plate spring pressure releases and applies pressure against the clutch disc and the flywheel. This condition causes the flywheel to turn the clutch disc and the transaxle input shaft.

The clutch pedal position (CPP) switch (2) is mounted above the clutch pedal (10) and contacts the clutch pedal lever (9). This switch is incorporated in the starter motor circuit in order to prevent the engine from being started with the clutch engaged or the transaxle in gear. When the clutch pedal is not depressed, an open in the starter motor circuit prevents the starter from operating. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the circuit closes, completing the starter motor circuit.