June 2019

T he clutch is constantly working if a vehicle is on the move. The constant action means this area will need work sooner or later. It’s pain, but it’s a fact. What’s also a fact is that replacing the clutch can be the cause of an argument, if you’re not careful. If you went back a few years, the idea of a clutch being controversial would seem strange. A clutch is certainly necessary, but a source of contention? It just does a job doesn’t it? Well, maybe, and maybe not. As engine technology has progressed to produce lower emissions, the transmission has been adapted to work with smaller engines boosted to produce more power, hence the growth in the use of the dual mass flywheel (DMF). When it comes to replacement, some motorists might like to retro-fit a single mass flywheel (SMF), which is a more traditional option, and also mechanically simpler. Reliability Comline’s clutch range focuses on SMF kits. Business Line Manager Povilas Borisas explains why they opt for this over DMF systems and discusses the brand’s quality control procedures: “The single mass flywheel is a piece of technology that has stood the test of time and has a proven track record for reliability. With no moving parts and a more simplistic structure versus DMF kits, the SMF clutch carries out the same task while offering superior value for money. Obviously, there are differences between the two technologies, but we believe in providing Comline customers with guaranteed quality at an affordable price and our range of SMF clutch kits delivers on this promise.” Povilas continues: “When it comes to ensuring the guaranteed quality of our clutches, we take several measures. Firstly, we only work with trusted world-class OEM supplying manufacturing partners. Secondly, every clutch component is subjected to strict analysis for chemical composition, tensile strength, hardness and microstructure. “ He adds: “Rigorously inspected and measured for conformity, all parts also undergo tests looking at clamp load, release load, pressure plate lift and more besides. Thanks to this absolute focus on quality we can confidently supply our impressive three-year, 36,000-mile warranty across our entire clutch range.” Original Another option is to stick with the original. Schaeffler REPXPERT Alistair Mason comments: “Original equipment manufacturers design, engineer and produce clutches to the strictest material and quality standards available. Price is and always will be a factor – we can’t escape that; however, quality, availability and value-added services also play a crucial part when it comes to technicians selecting the components they choose to fit. In addition, from my experience, a good technician wants to complete the job first time, every time, to ensure their reputation remains intact amongst their customers. A workshop can make good money by offering the best quality components available, as well as service, to guarantee customer satisfaction and loyalty. We believe technicians should make an informed choice as to whether they fit a genuine OE standard of clutch from an OE supplier, or one from a source that may not include all of the components required. The latter may not deliver the same driveability, reliability and durability expected by a vehicle owner and the supplier may also not have the support systems needed in place if anything goes wrong.” Performance “The choice of clutch can affect performance and reliability,” says Alistair. “These are examples of some of the problems that can occur:” Clutch lining compounds can vary in quality, affecting the life of the clutch, clutch friction and clutch lining strength at high RPM Cushion springs in-between the two friction surfaces should be manufactured to exact specifications and tolerances for each unique vehicle application. Generic cushion springs used in some clutches can affect clutch operation In a damped clutch plate, springs in the centre hub are perfectly tuned 50 AFTERMARKET JUNE 2019 CLUTCH AND TRANSMISSION Above: Grab the clutch opportunity with both hands www.aftermarketonline.net CLUTCH THE OPPORTUNITY! Everything you need to know about working with clutch and transmission systems in order to capture more work going forward