Clutch — design description (Audi A4 B6)

Models with a step gearbox have a single-plate dry clutch with hydraulic drive, asbestos-free linings and a twin-plate flywheel. In cars with a continuously variable automatic transmission Multitronic, a multi-plate clutch with hydraulic drive is installed. The 5-speed Tiptronic gearbox requires a hydrodynamic torque converter with an adjustable torque converter clutch. These are very practical and quite complex designs. True, they have the disadvantage that it is not so easy for a car enthusiast to get to the driven clutch disc, which is a wearing part. To do this, the gearbox must be separated from the engine and removed downwards. This work requires the appropriate knowledge and special tools. The wear of the clutch disc, which is usually changed only after 100 thousand km, depends on the load (for example, operation with a trailer) and driving style. Clutch parts must be replaced in a workshop.

The most important parts of the clutch

Flywheel. The flywheel is rigidly connected to the crankshaft. Some engines are equipped with a two-disc flywheel. The spring and damping device of the flywheel reduces the transmission of engine vibrations to the gearbox.

Clutch slave disc. This disc is located on the primary shaft of the gearbox. Linings are riveted to the disc on both sides.

Clutch pressure plate. The pressure plate is screwed to the flywheel. This plate is secured by means of a disc (membrane) the springs seal the driven disk to the flywheel.

Clutch release bearing. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the lever and the clutch release fork are activated hydraulically. The clutch release fork presses the bearing, which is located on the fork shaft, against the disc spring of the clutch pressure plate.