You’re wondering, How do you put on a clutch cover, and your service manual isn’t very helpful. While the clutch isn’t visible while the cover is on, it has teeth and a pull-out lever. The service manual does have one helpful tip, which is to unscrew the clutch release shaft. This step is critical, because it allows you to see the clutch engagement lever and teeth.

Remove the pressure plate bolts and clutch springs
To replace the clutch, you’ll need to first remove the pressure plate. There are several bolts holding the plate in place, but you should only tighten them to the recommended torque. It’s also important to make sure that the pressure plate bolts are not overtightened. You’ll also need to clean the pressure plate bolts and the clutch springs.

Loosen the clutch release shaft
If your car shifts smoothly, but the clutch pedal stays on the floor, the problem could be the linkage or release bearing. Adjust any springs in the linkage and inspect the release bearing and pedal stop. If the clutch pedal stays on the floor, you may have a bent clutch fork or a damaged release bearing. Mechanical units often fail due to a worn pressure-plate diaphragm spring.

Install the clutch cover
The clutch plate cover assembly  is a crucial part of the clutch assembly, which affects shifting, reversing, and starting. It has a friction plate that rides on the clutch pressure plate, which is made of copper wire and wear-resistant asbestos. When the friction plate wears down to the lowest thickness, you need to replace it. To install a new clutch cover, follow the directions in your owner’s manual. If you are unsure of how to install your new clutch cover, check with a repair shop.

Check the condition of the clutch basket and hub
Before you put on a clutch plate cover assembly, you should inspect the condition of the hub and basket of the clutch. If these parts are worn out, they will have a tendency to stick and cause a delayed disengagement, and the clutch will be less powerful. A worn clutch can also lead to a clutch lever that sticks and makes it difficult to shift gears. You should replace the clutch basket and the pressure plate if you notice these signs.

Install the clutch release shaft
Before installing a new clutch, install the release shaft, if necessary. If the clutch isn’t installed properly, it can cause judder and slippage. To avoid this, apply a thin film of grease to the contact surfaces of the pressure plate and flywheel. You can also use crocus cloth to clean the pressure plate’s surface. After removing the pressure plate, install the release shaft by following the same steps as installing the clutch disc.