The clutch consists of a clutch pedal, a pressure plate, a driven plate, a release bearing and a hydraulic drive (see illustration 1.0).
1.0 Clutch details: 1 - driven disk; 2 - pressure plate; 3 - diaphragm spring; 4 - release bearing; 5 - clutch cable; 6 - automatic adjusting device for clutch cable tension; 7 - clutch pedal
The pressure plate is rigidly screwed to the flywheel, which, in turn, is flanged to the engine crankshaft. Between the pressure plate and the flywheel is the clutch disc, which is pressed against the flywheel by the pressure plate. The clutch disc is centered by the gearbox input shaft, with which it is splined.
When depressing the clutch pedal (clutch disengagement), which means that hydraulic or mechanical pressure is exerted on the clutch fork lever, the clutch release bearing is pressed against the pressure plate spring. As a result of this, the pressure plate is released and the clutch disc is no longer pressed against the flywheel. The power circuit between the engine and gearbox stops.
With each engagement and disengagement of the clutch, due to light friction, the friction lining of the clutch disc is gradually abraded. Thus, the clutch disc is a wear part, but it lasts an average of more than 100,000 km. The degree of wear depends mainly on the load (trailer operation) and driving style. The clutch itself does not require maintenance, because. it is self-regulating.
RENAULT MEGANE vehicles can also be equipped with an automatic clutch. Auto clutch vehicles do not have a clutch pedal. The clutch is actuated hydraulically by an electric pump. The automatic clutch responds to movement of the shift lever, as well as the accelerator and brake pedals. Repair of the automatic clutch must be carried out by a RENAULT specialist workshop.