If you have been driving for a long time, then we are sure you must have experienced a clutch failure at least once in your life. It is something that is one of the most bothersome car troubles one can get into. Furthermore, it is equally costly to repair. Why? Because most of the time, the only way to repair a clutch is to replace it.
Since the clutch is one of the most important components of a car, you must take exceptionally good care of it. It connects the motor of your car to the gearbox. Thus, when it’s compromised, your car will not move as the power from the motor will fail to reach the wheels. The following article is a complete guide to clutch replacement Bristol. It tells you more about what a clutch is and how it functions. Also, the guide highlights the signs you should look for to replace your clutch. It even tells you how to replace it.
What Is A Clutch?
By definition, a clutch is but a mechanical device used to connect or disconnect two rotating shafts of a machine. In simple words, the clutch is used in cars to connect the engine to the transmission, which makes it possible for you to shift gears even when the engine is running.
Clutches shine when they are used in devices with two rotating shafts, such as cars. Here, one shaft is used by a motor while the other shaft is joined to a different component. The clutch is actually the bridge between these two shafts. Thus, these shafts, by using the clutch, can either spin at equal speeds or different ones.
How Does It Work?
A clutch works in a more straightforward manner than most people might think. It basically transfers the power from the motors to the transmission. This results in the wheel moving. Although today most cars come with an automatic transmission, the use of the clutch remains the same, just the manual input has shifted to a somewhat automated one. So, you should not think that since you drive an automatic, you won’t have clutch issues. However, it is not all bad. Replacing a clutch is not that hard. So the next time you go for a clutch replacement, you should not worry about getting the right service.
Just like an automatic transmission, manual cars also utilize a foot pedal to make the clutch work. All you have to do is press the pedal to disengage the clutch and shift gears before removing your foot from the pedal for the wheels to move.
When Should You Replace Your Clutch?
Now that you know what a clutch is and how it works, you must be wondering when to replace it. Typically, your clutch is also looked at during annual car maintenance. Thus, when you go for your car service Bristol, you can ask the mechanic about the status of your clutch, or he might suggest repairs or replacements if he finds it to be worrisome. However, other than that, there are still things you should look out for, such as:
Rumbling or Squeaking Noises
If you often hear a sort of rumbling or a screeching sound when you press the clutch pedal, then we recommend you get your car looked at. Such a strange rumbling or squeaking sound might suggest there is something wrong with your car. Generally, when you push the pedal, there won’t be any noise. So, such noise is basically indicating that there is something wrong with the clutch.
Shuddering
Undue vibrations or shaking can also be a sign of clutch trouble. If your car suddenly jerks or shudders when you release the clutch pedal, especially at a slow speed, then there is something wrong with either your clutch or your gearbox. It can be something as minor as water damage to the clutch or something as major as damaged gears. The only way to be certain is to get your clutch looked at by a reputed mechanic.
Slippage
Slippage is one of the sure signs that it’s time for you to replace your clutch. It is basically a phenomenon where you rev your car, but it fails to speed up. No matter how you accelerate, if the subsequent increase in speed is lacking, then your clutch should be replaced.
Difficulty In Changing Gears
Finally, if you are having trouble shifting gears, then it is a clear sign to get your clutch replaced. Typically, shifting gears does not require much force. But if you have to do so to open the cogwheels even when your foot is all the way down on the pedal, then you must go for repairs.
How To Replace A Clutch?
Although we recommend going to a professional for clutch replacement, you can still do it yourself if you have the means and knowledge. Start by:
- First, try to raise the car above ground level using a jack. Also, make sure that the jack is supporting the transmission so that you can work.
- Then, remove the transaxle to access the clutch. After that, unhook the clutch as well as the positive battery cables.
- Now, disconnect any electrical connections and the speedometer cable.
- Once done with all this, remove the housing bolts and take out the transaxle.
- After that, remove the drive axle and the prop shaft. This will allow you to get to the pressure plate. Thus, take away the flywheel and the clutch disc.
- Try to clean the crankshaft as much as you can.
- Finally, replace the flywheel as it was originally and replace all the other components as you removed them in order.
- Now, bolt the pressure plate in position and use the transaxle.
- All you have to do now is to lower the car and remove the jack.