CLUTCH & TRANSMISSION

Clutch and Transmission Repair Services

Many people appreciate the responsiveness and control that a vehicle with a manual transmission offers. You must press the clutch in, move the shifter, and then release the clutch slowly while the throttle is increased to get the vehicle in a position to start moving. Then, each time you want to shift, you must work with the gas and clutch while also steering and shifting. It is something some individuals love, with many of those individuals choosing to only own manual vehicles.

However, clutch and transmission repair problems do happen, and it’s important to be aware of what to look for when they do.

What Are the Parts of the Clutch?

Clutch and Transmission Repair: The clutch itself is what connects the transmission with the engine. When you press down on the clutch pedal, this releases the clutch which was separating the transmission and engine. It makes shifting gears much easier and allows you to come to a stop without causing the engine to stall.

Several components make up the clutch:

  • Clutch Disk – This is a friction device that makes a connection between the transmission and engine.
  • Flywheel – This component gives the clutch disk a surface that it can hold onto.
  • Pressure Plate – This holds the clutch disk to the flywheel’s surface.
  • Throw-out Bearing – This component presses levers onto the pressure plate when you release the clutch by pressing the clutch pedal.

Of course, any component that makes up the clutch can eventually wear out or suffer damage. That’s why it’s important to understand what to watch for when driving, so you know why your vehicle may not be operating as expected.

What Are Symptoms of a Clutch Problem?

There’s no specific mileage or age that will give you a guideline for when a clutch replacement may be required. This is why it’s essential to understand symptoms of a worn-out clutch. Below, we offer some tips for determining this:

  • Strange Clutch Feel – When a clutch is in the early stages of a failure, the actual feel of the clutch may change. You will often notice that it feels more spongy or soft than it usually does. You can test this by going on a drive and seeing how far you need to let the clutch out before the gear catches. If it takes a lot, you may well have a clutch that needs replacement.
  • Awful Smell – In most cases, a failing clutch is going to cause a burning smell. This happens because there is excess friction coming from the slipping clutch.
  • Problems Shifting – If it’s become harder to shift gears, this is a sign that your clutch is going bad. You may find that the car shakes when shifting or just doesn’t engage as well as it used to. This is often seen the most in reverse and first gear.
  • Visible Damage – If you’re comfortable with basic mechanic jobs, it’s not difficult to remove the inspection cover located at the bottom of the bell housing to get a look at the clutch. If the clutch is wearing out or damaged, you’ll notice there is visible damage. Do keep in mind that some black dust near the clutch is normal; what you want to look for is damage on the actual clutch.

Of course, just having a slipping clutch when you add power to the car is a good indicator that the clutch is not working as it should. If these symptoms are happening with your own vehicle, it’s probably going to require a clutch replacement. This is a big job that an experienced mechanic, like the ones at Kwik Kar Richardson, should be in charge of.

Should I Drive with a Clutch Problem?

It’s often difficult or even impossible to drive a vehicle with a failed clutch. If you can put the transmission in gear, the disc may not have the power to transmit the amount of torque it would require to move the car. As such, this is something that should be looked at by a professional as soon as possible.

How Are Clutch Problems Diagnosed?

Once you bring in your car, a technician will inspect the clutch cable and clutch itself. There are instances where shifting problems are a symptom of worn pivot arms, leaking clutch master cylinders, or clutch cables that are misadjusted. However, if these issues are not found, the next step will be to remove the transmission from the vehicle. At this time, the pressure plate, flywheel, and clutch will be looked at, and repair or replacement will be recommended.

How Is a Clutch Replaced?

Your technician is going to remove the transmission or transaxle from the car with the problem. At this point the clutch, release bearing, and pressure plate can be taken from the engine. If the flywheel requires replacement or resurfacing, this will take place. The pilot bearing will also be removed from the back of the crankshaft. Next, any new components will be installed. After the vehicle is back in one piece, your mechanic will do a test to make sure the car is operating correctly.

Kwik Kar of Richardson offers a comprehensive range of auto repair services including alternators, starters, brake repairs, fuel injector repairs, electrical services, oil changes, clutch and transmission services, differential repairs, engine diagnostics, wheel alignment, battery services, heating and cooling services, state inspections, shocks and struts, tires, and timing belt replacements. They emphasize routine maintenance to ensure vehicle longevity and safety. Special offers include discounts for military, first responders, healthcare providers, and a special “Ladies Day” discount on oil changes.

Success
Processing...
Thank you! Your subscription has been confirmed. You'll hear from us soon.
ErrorHere