Clutch Release Bearing

 I. Clutch release bearing definition

Clutch release bearing, also known as release bearing, is a key component in the automotive manual transmission system. It is a compact device consisting of an outer ring, an inner ring, rolling elements (balls or rollers), a cage and a contact surface, etc. It is used to push or release the clutch pressure plate when the driver operates the clutch pedal, so as to achieve the power connection or disconnection between the engine and the gearbox.

 II. Clutch Release Bearing Location

The clutch release bearing is installed behind the clutch pressure plate, i.e. between the clutch and the transmission. Specifically, it is usually mounted on the tubular extension of the first shaft bearing cover of the transmission, connecting the intermediary between the clutch pedal and the pressure disc diaphragm spring.

 Third, the clutch release bearing role

The main role of the clutch release bearing is to promote the engagement and disengagement of the clutch, so as to achieve smooth gear shifting and efficient power transmission. Specific roles include:

1. power transmission control: when the driver depresses the clutch pedal, the release bearing pushes the clutch pressure plate to separate the clutch disc from the flywheel, cutting off the power transmission; when the driver releases the pedal, the release bearing releases the pressure plate, and the clutch disc re-engages with the flywheel, resuming the power transmission.

2. Reduce friction: the release bearing replaces the sliding friction by rolling friction, which reduces the friction and wear during clutch operation.

3. Improve driving experience: make clutch operation lighter and reduce driver's fatigue.

4. Extend clutch life: Reduce the wear and tear of the clutch disc and extend the overall service life of the clutch system.

5. Improve vehicle performance: Ensure the smoothness and accuracy of power transmission, and improve the driving performance of the vehicle.

 Clutch release bearing value

The quality of the clutch release bearing is directly related to the performance and life of the clutch. A good quality release bearing can ensure the clutch operates easily, shifts smoothly, reduces wear and noise, and improves driving comfort and safety. At the same time, good release effect also helps to extend the service life of the clutch and transmission, reduce maintenance costs.

 Clutch release bearing working principle

The working principle of clutch release bearing mainly revolves around the conversion of friction and force. The specific steps are as follows:

1. Depress the clutch pedal: when the driver depresses the clutch pedal, hydraulic pressure is generated in the clutch master cylinder, which transfers the pressure to the clutch slave cylinder. The clutch slave cylinder activates the clutch release bearing in turn. 

2. Pushing the release bearing: The release bearing moves towards the diaphragm spring, which compresses the pressure plate towards the clutch disc. This compression effectively disengages the clutch, separating the engine power from the transmission for smooth shifting.

3. Release the clutch pedal: when the driver releases the clutch pedal, the hydraulic pressure is released, and the spring or other restoring force makes the clutch pressure plate and friction plate re-unite, and the engine power is transferred to the transmission again, and the vehicle can continue to drive.

 Clutch release bearing lubrication conditions and maintenance methods

 Clutch release bearing lubrication conditions

1. high temperature lubrication: release bearing works in high temperature environment, need to use high temperature resistant grease, such as high temperature lithium grease, in order to ensure that the extreme temperature can still be effective lubrication. 2. sealing: modern design tends to be more and more modern design tendency.

2. sealing: modern design tends to use full sealing structure of the separation bearing, reduce the outside dust and moisture invasion, keep the grease clean and effective.

3. Special design: some release bearings are designed with automatic centring function, which ensures that the bearings can be uniformly loaded even under different centring conditions through wave springs and other components, thus reducing the wear and tear.

 Clutch release bearing maintenance methods

1. Regular inspection: Check the free travel of the clutch pedal regularly to make sure it is within the recommended range (usually 30-40mm), too little travel may cause the release bearing to contact frequently and accelerate the wear.

2. Grease replenishment: For non-sealed release bearings, it is necessary to regularly check whether the grease is sufficient and, if necessary, add grease through specific nozzles, but modern vehicles tend to use pre-lubricated bearings, which do not need to be added frequently.

3. Cleaning and maintenance: Although separation bearings usually do not need to be disassembled and cleaned, when the vehicle is overhauled or replaced, it should be ensured that the environment around the bearings is clean to avoid the entry of impurities.

4. Correct operation: Avoid frequent semi-linkage operation to reduce unnecessary wear and tear on the clutch, especially when starting and shifting gears, the clutch pedal should be operated quickly and smoothly.

5. Professional inspection: During the regular maintenance of the vehicle, the rotation flexibility of the release bearing and whether there is any abnormal ringing sound should be checked by professional technicians and replaced if necessary.

Summary

The clutch release bearing is a key component in the automotive manual transmission system, installed behind the clutch pressure plate, connecting the clutch pedal and pressure plate diaphragm spring. Its main function is to promote the engagement and disengagement of the clutch to achieve smooth gear shifting and efficient power transmission. The clutch release bearing achieves its function through friction and force conversion, and its quality is directly related to the performance and life of the clutch. Therefore, when selecting a clutch release bearing, attention should be paid to its quality and performance to ensure driving safety and comfort. Correct lubrication and maintenance measures can significantly extend the service life of the clutch release bearing and keep the vehicle transmission system efficient and stable.