Getfile 582e105b9f8af

Ask the Expert: What is the correct way to adjust a heavy duty clutch?

Nov. 17, 2016
The proper distance of the clutch release bearing and the clutch break, regardless of the manufacturer, is a minimum of 1/2".

Q: What is the correct way to adjust a heavy duty clutch?

A: First, you need to know what “properly adjusted” is. All HD 15.5” pull style clutch manufacturers, both OE first fit and aftermarket, will tell you that the proper distance of the clutch release bearing and the clutch brake is a minimum of 1/2". This is the SAE standard, and this distance is required to allow the clutch to properly release. Also, this is the standard position for manual and automatic adjust clutches and manual or hydraulic clutch release linkage. None of the manufacturers will tell you to start with the clutch pedal in-cab “free play.”

Manual Clutch Adjustment: For a manual adjust clutch, the technician would use the clutch adjustment features to set the release bearing to clutch brake distance to 1/2". Second, check to ensure the release bearing to release fork distance is 1/8". Then, check the clutch brake squeeze by depressing the clutch pedal in the cab to the floor and verifying that the release system can stroke the clutch release bearing all the way to the clutch brake and stop the input shaft from turning. Lastly, check in-cab free play. In-cab free play is the final result of proper clutch adjustment.

Self-Adjusting Clutches: For a self-adjusting clutch, like the Eaton Solo, the procedure is similar. Confirm the 1/2" measurement from the release bearing and the clutch brake. Check for a 1/8" gap between the release fork and release bearing. Next, check the clutch brake squeeze by depressing the clutch pedal in the cab to the floor and verifying that the release system can stroke the clutch release bearing all the way to the clutch brake and stop the input shaft from turning. Finally, check in-cab free play.  In-cab “free play” is the final result of proper clutch position and adjustment.

Information provided by: Betts Truck Parts & Service

About the Author

Shawn Mahoney | Drivetrain Product Manager, Betts Truck Parts & Service

Sponsored Recommendations

In this on-demand webinar from the AMCS Group, discover how mobile access to maintenance data empowers fleets to make faster decisions, optimize scheduling, and generate real ...
Experts from 3M, John Ascheman and Todd Mathes, emphasize the importance of using digital inventory and billing tools like 3M™ RepairStack™ to document materials usage in detail...
Are you aware of the hidden costs lurking behind ignored maintenance? This eBook reveals how neglecting upkeep can inate repair bills, induce downtime, and harm reliability. ...
Are your KPIs driving real fleet improvement? Learn how to set smarter, data-driven benchmarks, track success like top-performing fleets, and apply proven strategies to optimize...