Clutch operation (Audi A4 B5)

The transmission of power from the engine to the gearbox is accomplished by means of a clutch. It works solely by friction, and can be visualized as follows: two adjacent surfaces clamp a third and hold it with such force that it must rotate with them. The main thing is that this connection can be broken at any time, otherwise the two parts could be screwed together. Let's call these parts: the flywheel and the pressure plate under spring load are permanently connected to the engine. Between them is clamped the driven disk, which is permanently connected to the gearbox shaft.

Another important function is performed by the release bearing: when the clutch pedal is pressed, it is pressed against the pressure plate by actuating the clutch and to a certain extent takes on the force of the pressure plate spring. As a result, the driven disk is released from its forced position and can rotate freely between the pressure plate and the flywheel. The power flow from the engine to the gearbox is interrupted.

If the pedal is released again, the disc spring of the pressure plate presses the driven disk to the flywheel, the free movement of the disks disappears. All three parts are a strong power connection. The power flow can be transmitted from the engine to the drive.

[A link to the original source is available on the website: AUDIMANUAL]