The clutch is the link between the engine and the drivetrain. It's what separates the two when your vehicle needs to go up or down a gear. The same happens in both an automatic and a manual and the same issues can occur too. One of the main ways to tell if your clutch is in need of a replacement is a burning smell. There's nothing more distinguishing than this mechanical smell as the clutch wears out.
There could be some unusual noises coming from the transmission tunnel while driving and if you've got a manual you will have a rather soft pedal. The pedal shouldn't be too stiff but it shouldn't feel spongy either. The clutch pedal could also get stuck which is a strong indicator that you need a new performance clutch.
Advantages of a Performance Clutch
Weight
Not everyone may need a performance clutch but the fact that it's geared towards more extreme driving means you will get a component that can take a beating. Bona fide performance clutches are going to be much lighter than any other stock or aftermarket clutch. This way you will enjoy a smoother drive.
Economy
Something that is second nature to a lightweight component is economy. In this case, it's all about fuel economy. So, during your daily commute, you will enjoy having not only smoother shifts but also a more fuel-efficient drive and one that will generate fewer emissions too.
Timing
The time you get around the track consistently is going to be shorter with a performance clutch. Once you bed in the clutch, take your car for a lap or two and see how it will perform. You'll be surprised by the results.
Power
Performance aftermarket clutches also allow you to get shifts In quicker and thus introduce more power to the wheels a lot sooner. This results in quicker acceleration and faster 0 to 100 km/ h times than you did before.
What Matters in a Performance Clutch
Material
When it comes to the materials they're made of, clutches are found in 4 different variations.
Organic clutches are much quieter and more durable than stock ones while also being smoother. But being made from organic materials, these clutches are not made to be used on the track.
Carbon or Kevlar clutches are able to offer a similar set of capabilities to those of organic ones but they are able to withstand heat a lot better.
With ceramic clutches you get the best performance clutches you'll ever come across. Especially when coupled with a high-rated pressure plate, you'll get all the grip and a high clamping force from a highly durable material.
Design
When it comes to clutch designs there are two options you can go for, long-style and diaphragm-style clutches. A long-style clutch is a three-finger clutch that is found on older vehicles. This is why these cars often have a stiff clutch pedal which required a lot more force from your left foot otherwise you wouldn't be able to shift gears.
Most vehicles today have a diaphragm-style clutch. These clutches have a diaphragm spring that engages and disengages when you use the pedal. This makes the clutch work in a smoother fashion and it makes the pedal a lot lighter and much easier to use too. If it's an automatic transmission then pedal feel is nothing you have to worry about.
Hydraulics or Cables
The majority of vehicles today come with hydraulic clutches, meaning they're outspread by a viscous fluid moving everything. This is because hydraulic clutches are much easier to use and they are better for spirited driving.
Cable-controlled clutches are not as common anymore since they are not easy on your leg especially when coupled with a stiffer cover and clutch made of harsher materials. If it's an organic clutch with a standard cover then relying on cables is fine but other than that you'll get a good workout every time you go for a drive.
Flywheel
The weight of the flywheel is going to determine the performance of the clutch. Since the clutch rotates at high speed the more weight there is to the flywheel the more power loss there is and the more mass is flung around making it more difficult to transfer all that power coming from the engine. So, a lighter flywheel is a better option for a performance vehicle.
What Comes in a Clutch Kit
Pressure Plate
Attached to the flywheel, the pressure plate is where the friction surface and diaphragm springs are found. It comes in contact with the flywheel and it helps in making the initial contact to help transfer the motion onto the driveshaft. The pressure plate bolts onto the flywheel and it acts much like a spring-loaded clamp.
Release Bearing
Also known as the throwout bearing, a release bearing is probably one of the most important components in a clutch kit. This small part helps push down the pressure plate through the diaphragm springs through the transmission input shaft. The bearing is moved by the clutch fork which moves when you press down on the pedal.
Clutch Disc
The disc which is placed on the transmission input shaft and spins together with the transmission is known as the clutch disc. This component has one side connected to the engine and the other to the transmission which makes it a critical part in the transfer of power as it needs to absorb wear and tear while it ensures a smooth experience.
Clutch Alignment Tool
This may not be part of the clutch itself but it is crucial when installing a new clutch. A clutch alignment tool helps keep the clutch disc centred with the flywheel and pressure plate. This way everything works as it should once you have the transmission put back into place.
