How Does a Clutch in a Manual Car Work?

Manually Operated

  • A clutch in a manual transmission works by foot control. The driver of a car with a manual transmission operates the clutch by pressing down on the clutch pedal with his foot. The clutch pedal, which is attached to the clutch by a cable, is responsible for engaging and disengaging the clutch from the driveshaft and transmission.

Allows Transmission Operation

  • The clutch is what allows a manual transmission to function. Whenever a manual transmission is to be shifted into any gear, the clutch pedal has to be fully pressed, which in turn engages the clutch. A manual transmission cannot be shifted without the clutch mechanism.The clutch is located between these two parts, and when pressed(engaged), it disengages the crankshaft from the transmission, which in turn prevents transmission operation.

Clutch Cable Importance

  • The cable connecting the clutch pedal inside the vehicle to the clutch itself is very important for clutch operation. A cable that is too loose will prevent the clutch from being fully engaged. A cable that is too tight may make the clutch too sensitive and can also cause the cable to snap, which will prevent clutch function altogether.