Pressure plate assembly repair
Most repair shops choose to completely replace pres-
sure plate assemblies, rather than rebuild them. It is possi-
ble, however, with the proper equipment, to take apart a
pressure plate assembly and replace just the parts that are
worn. This is typically done on an assembly line by large
automotive rebuilders. As a general rule, pressure plate
assemblies that are put together with nuts and bolts can be
rebuilt, while pressure plates held by rivets cannot be
rebuilt. If a shop decides to rebuild a pressure plate assem-
bly, it must closely follow the manufacturer’s directions. A
general procedure for rebuilding a pressure plate assembly
is shown in Figure 7-31. Remember to wear eye protection!
Throwout Bearing Assembly Service
The throwout bearing is almost always replaced when
the clutch is serviced. It is often a source of problems. If
the bearing must be reused, it should be carefully checked
for defects.
Caution: If you intend to reuse a throwout
bearing, do not wash it in any kind of clean-
ing solvent. Solvent will dissolve the
throwout bearing lubricant, which cannot be replaced.
Throwout bearing assembly inspection
Check the throwout bearing for roughness by attempt-
ing to rotate it by hand. If rotation is rough, or if it appears
to have lost its grease, it should be replaced.
Check the bearing collar for a free (but not loose) fit
on the hub of the transmission’s front bearing retainer. A
loose fit indicates that the collar or hub, or both, is worn.
Check the collar where it contacts the clutch fork. If the
148 Manual Drive Trains and Axles
Figure 7-31. Procedures A through H illustrate the steps in a coil-spring pressure plate assembly overhaul. This procedure is
general, and the manufacturer’s service manual should always be consulted. (General Motors) (continued)
Clutch
cover
Block
Remove
adjustment nuts
Arbor
press
Drive lug
Release
lever
Eyebolt
Strut
Pressure
plate
Cover
Remove
springs
A—Use an arbor press to compress pressure plate apply
springs so that the assembly can be taken apart. Place and
arrange the block under the pressure plate so that the cover is
free to move down. Remove the eyebolt adjustment nuts, which
are used to adjust the release lever height, from clutch cover.
Slowly release the arbor press so the cover can be removed
without the apply springs flying out.
D—Grease the pressure plate drive lugs with high temperature
grease, after inspecting assembly for cracking, wear, and other
damage.
C—Remove release levers. To do this, lift up on the lever and
remove the strut. Keep all parts of each particular lever
together.
B—Carefully mark positions of all springs and release levers.
This will ensure parts are reinstalled in their original positions.
Organize the disassembled parts of the pressure plate assem-
bly on the workbench. Replace all parts that show wear.