Clutch Functions and Uses
Posted in
Blog
Monday, January 26, 2015
This article is designed to help the driver to have a better understanding of how a clutch functions and the proper operation of the clutch. If these directions are followed the tractor will run smoother and last longer.
Clutch – Is a mechanism that engages and disengages power from the engine to the transmission.
Clutch Brake – Is a mechanism that is designed to stop the input shaft for the transmission from rotating which allows the transmission and gears to line up correctly when placing the transmission into gear from a standing start. The brake should only be applied when starting out from a stand still.
Clutch Pedal – Is the left hand foot pedal on the tractor.
Proper usage
- The clutch pedal should only be depressed far enough to disengage the engine from the transmission when up-shifting or down shifting while moving (Two to Three inches).
- The proper method for clutching while starting is to depress the clutch pedal until it contacts the clutch brake, shift the transmission into the desired gear and release the clutch.
- The proper method for clutching while shifting the transmission is a method called double clutching. Press the pedal, shift to neutral, release the pedal, press pedal, shift the transmission into the desired gear and release the clutch.
Improper usage
- Slipping the clutch when starting out. (This will result in the clutch wearing out prematurely.)
- Resting foot on clutch pedal. (This will result in premature failure of the throw-out bearing and the clutch assembly.)
- Using jerking motions during the engagement of the clutch. (This can cause an overload that will damage the dampener in the clutch.)
- Coasting with the clutch engaged. (This can cause the gears and the bearings of the transmission to spin at high speeds without proper lubrication.)
- Depressing the clutch pedal to the floor, up against the clutch brake, while the truck is moving. (This will cause the clutch brake to wear out or break as it is trying to stop the entire truck.)
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