Clutch Operating Members. Geo Prizm 1996

For 1990-2009 cars

The clutch assembly contains the following 5 major components:

• | The flywheel (1)

• | The clutch disc (2)

• | The clutch pressure plate (3)

• | The clutch release bearing (5)

• | The clutch release fork (6)

The clutch disc (2) is a single, dry disc composed of asbestos material which is riveted onto a steel plate (similar to a brake pad). The hub of the clutch disc is splined to the transaxle input shaft. The hub turns the transaxle input shaft when the clutch disc is engaged. The torsional coil springs are placed between the clutch disc and the clutch hub. The torsional coil springs reduce shock upon clutch engagement.

The clutch pressure plate (3) is bolted to the flywheel and turns with the engine. The clutch disc (2) is fitted between the clutch pressure plate (3) and the flywheel (1). The clutch pressure plate is loaded with a diaphragm type spring which maintains constant pressure against the clutch disc and the flywheel when the clutch is engaged. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the clutch release fork (6) pushes the clutch release bearing (5) into the clutch pressure plate spring levers. This releases pressure against the clutch disc and the flywheel, interrupting engine torque to the transaxle. When the clutch pedal is released, clutch pressure plate spring pressure releases and applies pressure against the clutch disc and the flywheel. This condition causes the flywheel to turn the clutch disc and the transaxle input shaft.

The clutch pedal position (CPP) switch (2) is mounted above the clutch pedal (10) and contacts the clutch pedal lever (9). This switch is incorporated in the starter motor circuit in order to prevent the engine from being started with the clutch engaged or the transaxle in gear. When the clutch pedal is not depressed, an open in the starter motor circuit prevents the starter from operating. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the circuit closes, completing the starter motor circuit.

### Hydraulic Clutch

The hydraulic clutch mechanism engages and disengages the clutch system.

The clutch release system consists of the following components:

• | The Clutch master cylinder

• | The 2 fluid pipes

• | The 1 fluid hose

• | The Clutch actuator cylinder assembly

A pushrod controls the clutch master cylinder. The cylinder is mounted to the front of the dash. The clutch actuator cylinder assembly is mounted to the side the clutch housing.

The clutch hydraulic system is serviced as 2 components, the clutch master cylinder assembly and the clutch actuator cylinder assembly, 2 fluid pipes and 1 fluid hose.

Depressing the clutch pedal moves a piston inside the clutch master cylinder and displaces hydraulic clutch fluid to the clutch actuator cylinder. A hydraulic force is developed from the release bearing pressing on the diaphragm spring. The force of the diaphragm spring on the clutch disc decreases as the force of the release bearing increases. This process continues until the clutch is disengaged. The hydraulic clutch system does not require adjustment.

### Hydraulic Clutch Fluid

When adding fluid or refilling the system after service operations, use Hydraulic Clutch Fluid GM P/N 12345347 or an equivalent fluid that meets DOT 3 specifications only.