Masterparts stocks automotive clutch kits for sale, at branches across South Africa and in Namibia. Our range covers the vast majority of makes and models by leading vehicle manufacturers.
What does a clutch kit do in a car?
A clutch kit is a selection of parts for the repair of a vehicle’s clutch system.
Each kit typically consists of a:
- clutch disc
- clutch pressure plate
- release bearing/concentric slave cylinder.
Together, the components are responsible for the linking and de-linking of the engine from the gearbox, as the clutch pedal is engaged and disengaged by the driver.
The main function of the clutch is to disconnect the gearbox from the engine as the driver changes gears.
When there is damage or wear to any of the clutch components, a full system’s upgrade is advisable. Clutch kits from Masterparts offer parts’ compatibility, at an affordable price.
Example clutch components for a manual gearbox. Source: Bigstock (licensed).
How do clutch kits work?
To demonstrate how a clutch kit works, we must explore each of the parts first.
They are the:
- flywheel – a toothed disc that is permanently attached to the crankshaft. The flywheel rotates along with the engine.
- clutch plate (disc) – a disc that creates friction between the flywheel and pressure plate, thereby engaging and disengaging the clutch. The clutch plate is not attached to either the flywheel or the pressure plate.
- pressure plate – a steel plate that is bolted to the flywheel, and spins when it and the engine rotates.
When the driver engages the clutch pedal, a spring at the centre of the pressure plate releases the pressure on the clutch plate.
This release of pressure allows the clutch plate to move away from the rotating flywheel, disconnect from the engine, and enable a smooth gear change.
When the driver releases the clutch pedal, the pressure plate forces the clutch plate against the flywheel, and transfers engine power to the transmission.
For a 3D animated view of the clutch kit system and how it works, we recommend having a look at this YouTube video.
Signs of worn clutch kit parts
Wear and tear of any of the clutch kit parts can cause the clutch to slip and interfere with the driver’s ability to change gears.
Warning signs that a replacement clutch kit is required include squeaking or groaning noises when the clutch pedal is pressed down, or a sticky, spongy or loose-feeling clutch pedal.
When the gears are difficult to change, the car judders when changing gears or there is a loss of acceleration during the gear change, it’s time to replace the clutch assembly.
Where to get clutch kits from Masterparts
We offer a comprehensive range of clutch kits to suit all vehicle makes and models.
Clutch kits in and around Cape Town:
Clutch kits in KwaZulu-Natal:
Clutch kits in Namibia:
Along with clutch kits, Masterparts supplies a full range of suspension, steering, engine, braking and electronic parts for cars. Contact us if there’s a part you need and we’ll do our best to help.
