Understanding the Clutch Control and When to Use It

For any new car learner, understanding and operating the clutch system alleviate stress, especially on traffic lights. For some, it is also a daunting experience, as the first challenge while learning the car for them is to stop and move the vehicle again. So, if someone wishes to attain good skills of clutch control, it is pivotal for them to first understand how the clutch system works and when to use it while driving.

Essential Components of Clutch Control System

The clutch system is made of two plates-the friction plate and the pressure plate. The pressure plate is connected to the gearbox side of the system, via an axle. And, the friction plate is attached to the engine side via the crankshaft.

Clutch Control and Its Working

This system is important for regulating the car’s speed in manual transmission vehicle. The clutch control actually transmits the power of the engine to the gearbox. There, the clutch interrupts the transmission when the gear is changed while moving or when it is selected to move from a stationary position.

To understand more about the working of clutch control, let’s delve deeper into its functioning.

1. Working Principle of Clutch Control

Commencing with the pressed clutch pedal, this action separates the pressure and friction plates from each other. This means the wheels are separated from the car engine, preventing any power to the wheels. But here, the plate along the shaft still spins as the engine is running.

Now, after the car is in desired gear, it’s time to raise the clutch pedal, which allows the plates to again stick together. However, the things are different, when it’s the 1st gear. As, this time, the clutch pedal is released in the way that the plates come together slowly. Thus, allowing the car to run smoothly by joining the broken link between the engine and the wheels.

Clutch control working
Working Principle of clutch control. Source: spotlightnow

2. Learning Clutch Control Techniques

By now, you are aware that it’s a technique to control the car’s speed. But, what’s exactly the technique? Let’s get an answer to it ahead.

Firstly, when you are in the driver’s seat, ensure the clutch pedal is working smoothly, wear the seatbelt, turn on the engine, and put the handbrake on rest. After all it is done, now apply force on the clutch pedal and select the 1st gear. Next, power the engine by pressing the accelerator gently and simultaneously, raise the foot from the clutch slowly.

At this point, when the clutch plates meet it is called as bite point. In fact, this bite point occurs several times, while driving. However, it is important to remember that the force applied on the clutch pedal must be lesser than the one applied during the first gear.

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When to use the Clutch

There are certain defined situations when the clutch control should be used like, stopping or moving off the vehicle, controlling the vehicle at slow speed, and while changing the gear.

Clutch control system
When to use clutch control. Source: Drive2

TipsWhile driving off roads, it is wise to slow down the engagement of the clutch or else, the vehicle would stall as the gear increases.

After knowing about the clutch control system, its’ practice can only make you a skilled driver. So, start with it today! But remember to follow certain maintenance tips also, which prevents the clutch components from wearing out.

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