What Are the Parts of a Clutch Called?

The main parts of a typical automotive clutch are the flywheel, clutch disc (driven plate), pressure plate (clutch cover) with a diaphragm spring, release bearing (throwout bearing), release fork/lever, and a pilot bearing or bushing; the system is actuated by either a cable or a hydraulic setup (master and slave cylinder or a concentric slave/release bearing). In motorcycles and heavy-duty vehicles, variants add items like clutch baskets, multi-plate packs, intermediate (floater) plates, and specialized release hardware. This article breaks down the names and roles of these components across common clutch types.

Core Components of a Typical Manual-Transmission (Single Dry-Plate) Clutch

Most cars and light trucks with manual gearboxes use a single dry-plate clutch mounted between the engine and transmission. The following are the standard parts and their common alternate names.

• Flywheel: A machined steel or dual-mass unit bolted to the crankshaft; provides a friction surface for the clutch disc and smooths engine pulses.
• Clutch disc (driven plate/friction disc): A splined disc with friction linings and a torsion-damper spring hub; engages the flywheel and pressure plate to transmit torque.
• Pressure plate (clutch cover): The assembly bolted to the flywheel that clamps the disc; houses the diaphragm spring or coil springs and the pressure ring.
• Diaphragm spring (or coil springs): The spring mechanism inside the pressure plate that provides clamp force and lifts to disengage when released.
• Release bearing (throwout bearing/thrust bearing): A bearing that rides on the diaphragm fingers; pushes to release the clutch.
• Release fork/lever (clutch fork): The lever that moves the release bearing, actuated by a cable or hydraulic cylinder.
• Pilot bearing or pilot bushing (spigot bearing): Supports the transmission input shaft in the flywheel/crank; keeps shafts aligned when disengaged.
• Bellhousing: The enclosure that aligns and protects the clutch and mates engine to transmission.

Together, these parts allow smooth engagement and disengagement of engine power to the gearbox, making starts and gear changes possible without grinding.

Actuation Hardware (How the Pedal Moves the Clutch)

The release mechanism connects the driver’s foot to the release bearing. Depending on the vehicle, it may be cable-operated or hydraulic.

• Clutch pedal: The driver control that initiates release.
• Cable and quadrant (cable systems): A steel cable with an adjuster or self-adjusting quadrant that pulls the release fork.
• Master cylinder (hydraulic systems): Pedal-driven piston that pressurizes fluid.
• Slave cylinder (external) or concentric slave cylinder (CSC): Converts fluid pressure to mechanical movement of the fork or directly moves an integrated release bearing around the input shaft.
• Hydraulic line(s): Connect master and slave; may include a damper or delay valve.
• Return springs and bushings: Help pedal and fork return and reduce play.
• Release shaft/cross-shaft and pivot ball: Fulcrum hardware for the fork inside the bellhousing (varies by design).

While not always considered “wear parts,” these items are integral to clutch operation and are often serviced with the clutch to ensure smooth, light pedal feel.

Variations by Vehicle Type

Wet Multi-Plate Motorcycle/ATV Clutches

Many motorcycles and powersports machines use oil-bathed, multi-plate clutches for compact size and cooling. Their parts differ from automotive single-plate units.

• Clutch basket (outer drum): Driven by the engine; holds the stack.
• Inner hub: Splined to the transmission input; mates with the driven plates.
• Friction plates and steel plates (clutch pack): Alternating discs that provide total friction area.
• Pressure plate: Compresses the pack via springs.
• Clutch springs (coil springs or diaphragm): Provide clamp force, bolted to the pressure plate.
• Actuator/pushrod and lifter: Mechanism that separates the pack when the lever is pulled.
• Judder spring(s) and seat (some models): Reduce low-speed vibration.

In wet clutches, engine oil lubricates and cools the pack, influencing feel and durability through oil type and condition.

Heavy-Duty Truck Clutches (Twin-Disc, Pull-Type)

Commercial vehicles often use larger, sometimes dual-disc, clutches for higher torque and durability, frequently with pull-type release mechanisms.

• Dual driven discs: Two friction discs to increase torque capacity.
• Intermediate (floater) plate: Sits between the discs to provide a second friction surface.
• Cover and pressure plate assembly: Heavy-duty housing and clamping hardware.
• Pull-type release bearing and yoke: Bearing is pulled away from the cover to release.
• Adjusting ring/mechanism: Maintains release clearance as the discs wear.
• Clutch brake: A service brake inside the bellhousing to stop the input shaft for easier gear selection at a stop.

These systems prioritize longevity and serviceability, with adjustable components and higher heat capacity.

Dual-Clutch Transmissions (DCT)

DCTs use two clutches to preselect gears for rapid shifts. Depending on application, they may be dry or wet multi-plate assemblies and are mechatronically controlled.

• Duel clutch pack (Clutch A for odd gears, Clutch B for even): Concentric clutches on inner/outer input shafts.
• Wet or dry friction packs: Oil-cooled multi-plates (wet) or dry plates for efficiency and capacity needs.
• Concentric slave actuators and release mechanism: Hydraulics that modulate clamp force precisely.
• Mechatronics unit/TCU: Electrohydraulic control module managing pressure and shift timing.
• Dual-mass flywheel (often): Reduces torsional vibration for smooth engagement.

In DCTs, clutch parts are integrated with transmission controls, making service and terminology somewhat different from manual systems.

Related Parts Often Mentioned With the Clutch

Some items aren’t friction components but are commonly replaced or discussed during clutch service.

• Dual-mass flywheel (DMF) vs. solid flywheel: Vibration damping versus simplicity and durability trade-offs.
• Guide tube/sleeve for release bearing and fork boot: Ensures smooth bearing travel and keeps debris out.
• Clutch position/safety switch: Interlock for starting and rev-matching systems.
• Alignment tool (service tool): Centers the disc during installation.

Considering these associated parts helps avoid chatter, noise, and premature wear after a clutch job.

Maintenance and Replacement Basics

When replacing a clutch, it’s standard practice to renew multiple wear and support items to ensure reliable operation and avoid repeat labor.

• Replace as a kit: Clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing (and pilot bearing/bushing).
• Inspect/replace flywheel: Resurface or replace; DMFs are often replaced if out of spec.
• Service actuation: Replace leaking master/slave cylinders or cables; bleed hydraulics.
• Check fork, pivot, guide tube, and rear main seal: Address wear and oil leaks that contaminate the disc.
• Torque and alignment: Use correct fastener torques and an alignment tool to prevent engagement issues.

A comprehensive approach ensures proper pedal feel, engagement smoothness, and clutch life.

Summary

A clutch system centers on the flywheel, clutch disc (driven plate), pressure plate (with diaphragm or coil springs), release bearing, release fork/lever, and a pilot bearing/bushing, with either cable or hydraulic actuation. Variants add components such as clutch baskets and multi-plate packs (motorcycles), intermediate plates and clutch brakes (heavy-duty trucks), or dual clutch packs with mechatronic control (DCTs). Knowing the names and roles of these parts helps with diagnosis, maintenance, and informed parts selection.

What is the anatomy of the clutch in a car?

The clutch disc is a circular, friction-coated plate positioned between the flywheel and the pressure plate. When the clutch pedal is released, the clutch disc is pressed tightly against the flywheel by the pressure plate, allowing the transfer of power from the engine to the transmission.

How many parts does a clutch have?

It allows a driver to shift gears while the engine is running is a smooth and efficient way. The clutch consists of several components within the engine, including a clutch pedal, clutch disc, pressure plate, sensors, and a flywheel. Some clutch systems involve other parts – especially in higher spec models.

Is fixing a clutch a big job?

For an experienced mechanic with all the proper tools and equipment, changing a clutch usually eats up one full day of labor, over two to five calendar days once you’ve factored in time for ordering parts and machine work. It usually requires removal of the transmission, or sometimes removal of the engine instead.

What are the components of a clutch?

It describes the main components as the flywheel, clutch disc, pressure plate assembly, and clutch release bearing. The flywheel connects to the engine and the clutch disc connects it to the transmission. The pressure plate squeezes the clutch disc to engage and disengage drive via springs or a diaphragm.