Intermediate plate positioner for dual plate friction clutch

Abstract

A frictional two disc clutch includes a self-adjusting intermediate plate, telescoping positioners, and a removable set clip. The telescoping positioners and removable set clip are used to compensate for manufacturing variations so that the intermediate plate is properly positioned with respect to the discs and pressure plate. Each positioner includes a hollow cylindrical sleeve having a pin telescopingly disposed within it through an interference fit which has a high frictional resistance to movement. The positioner is collapsed to the proper length through the use of a removable set clip received on the cover. The thickness of the portion of the set clip positioned between the pin of the positioner and the cover is equal to one-half the initial travel of the pressure plate and the travel of the intermediate plate. With the clip in place, the desired length of the positioner is established through the action of bolting the cover to the flywheel. The pin moves relative to the sleeve to a position such that when the clutch is disengaged, the intermediate plate will move to a centered position between the pressure plate and flywheel. The clutch is then disengaged and the set clip removed.