3 Functions of Car Dual Clutch, How It Works & Maintenance Tips
The function of the car's dual clutch is quite important for the car's maneuverability. Therefore, it needs to be maintained regularly and periodically. The following will explain the function, how it works, and tips for properly maintaining the car's dual clutch for optimal maneuverability. For more details, please pay attention to the following review.
Function of the Car's Dual Clutch
The dual clutch is one of the components included in the transmission system components in cars with manual transmission. This component is also commonly known as the clutch disc. This component has several functions that cannot be underestimated, as it relates to the car's performance. Here are some functions of the dual clutch that you need to know.
1. As a power on/off switch for the engine's rotational force
The main function of the car's dual clutch is to act as a power on/off switch for the engine's rotational force, which will then be transmitted to the transmission.
2. Smoothens the distribution of the engine's rotational power to the transmission
When the car is maneuvering, the engine's rotational speed will be in acceleration mode (moving faster) compared to the input shaft speed in the transmission. Conversely, in deceleration mode, the speed will become slower. It is in this condition that slip occurs between the dual clutch and the flywheel.
As a result, the distribution of the engine's rotational power to the transmission will experience a drastic decrease. To avoid this slip condition, the car's dual clutch plays a role in smoothing the power changes between the engine and the transmission.
3. Dampens vibrations during transmission shifts
When shifting gears or the transmission lever, vibrations or jolts will occur. This happens due to the process of disconnecting and reconnecting the engine's power to the transmission. To minimize these vibrations, the car's dual clutch will work together with the components inside it to dampen these vibrations.
Read Also: Car Clutch: Function, Brands, and Signs and Effects When the Clutch Starts to Wear
How the Car's Dual Clutch Works
The operation of the car's dual clutch is divided into two, namely when pressing the pedal and releasing it. When the clutch pedal is pressed, the hydraulic fluid will press the hydraulic actuator and release bearing. As a result, the release lever component is also pressed, causing the clutch plate to lift, thus disconnecting the engine's rotational power to the transmission.
Meanwhile, when the pedal is released, the hydraulic pressure on the hydraulic actuator, release bearing, and release lever is lost. As a result, the clutch plate is pressed again, allowing the flywheel's rotation to be transmitted to the dual clutch and transmission.
Tips for Properly Maintaining the Dual Clutch
Considering its very important function, you need to know how to properly maintain the dual clutch. For more details, you can practice the following tips.
1. Avoid resting your foot on the clutch pedal
The first tip is to avoid the habit of resting your foot on the clutch pedal while the car is moving. This bad habit can cause increased friction between the dual clutch components, thus accelerating wear.
2. Avoid half-clutch maneuvering methods
The second tip is to avoid driving the car using the half-clutch method, especially on inclines. This can wear down the dual clutch, thus accelerating wear.
Always use the handbrake and keep the clutch in neutral when going up a hill. When the car is about to move, you can shift your transmission lever to first gear before pressing the gas pedal and releasing the handbrake.
3. Be wise in driving
The third tip is to be wise in driving. When the car is moving at low speed, you can downshift. When the car is moving at high speed, you can upshift. However, when shifting gears, avoid releasing the clutch directly as it causes jolts and accelerates wear on the car's transmission components.
4. Perform regular component checks
The last tip is to regularly check the condition of the dual clutch. Clean off any dirt that sticks, and replace it immediately if the component condition is worn.
It turns out that maintaining the car's dual clutch is not as difficult as it seems, right?
