Clutch: Testing and Inspection

1. Check for signs of oil at the bottom of the transaxle. If signs of oil are present, carefully inspect the rear crankshaft oil seal while the clutch is removed. It is recommended that the oil seal always be replaced when servicing the clutch assembly.

Pressure Plate Taper:

2. Inspect the clutch pressure plate. Check the release levers for bending or mis-alignment. Using a straightedge, check that the mating surface does not taper inward more than 0.20 mm (0.008 in.). Check to see that no rivets are loose. Carefully inspect the friction surface for cracks, scoring, discoloration due to heat or oil contamination, or other damage. A clutch pressure plate showing any of these signs of damage, should be replaced.

3. Clean the flywheel friction surface and inspect it for wear, cracks and grooves. Check for loose or worn dowel pins. Replace the flywheel if any of these faults are present.

Dial Indicator:

4. Check the thickness, runout, and general condition of the clutch disc. If runout exceeds 0.5 mm (0.02 in.), or if there is any evidence of contamination by oil, the disc should be replaced.

5. Inspect the splines of the clutch disc and the transmission input shaft. Check that the clutch disc is free to slide on the shaft. If the clutch disc is in any way unserviceable, it should be replaced. Clean all traces of grease from the shaft and clutch splines.

NOTE:
- It is normally recommended that the pressure plate be replaced when a new clutch disc is installed. If the clutch pressure plate is removed from the crankshaft, new mounting bolts should be used to reinstall it.

- The flywheel should be carefully inspected when replacing the clutch. Replacing the clutch disc without replacing other worn components may accelerate clutch disc wear.

- Some lubrication is recommended when reassembling the clutch. To avoid accelerated failure of the new parts, use only recommended lubricants.