Clutches

A manual transmission uses a clutch disc in conjunction with a pressure plate to allow the operator to shift gears. The clutch is the connection between the transmission and engine. When the clutch is engaged, the engine is driving the transmission. When the clutch is disengaged (when the clutch pedal is pushed down), the transmission is disconnected from the rotational motion of the engine’s crankshaft. The pressure plate works with the clutch disc to aid in the engaging and disengaging process, allowing the operator to move the gear stick shifter and change from one gear to the next.