Some clutch kits use a self-adjusting mechanism on the cover assembly, shown below, to provide automatic wear compensation, ensuring that pedal effort remains low, and pedal engage position remains constant throughout the service life of the clutch. A spring-loaded ratchet mechanism automatically compensates for changes in diaphragm finger height which occurs as the clutch plate is worn down, maintaining the finger height at a constant position. When fitting kits that use a self adjusting cover assembly, care should be taken that the adjustment mechanism isn’t prematurely adjusted during installation so that the life and performance of the clutch is not diminished.
Solution:
1. It is important that the bolts are tightened progressively in the correct order. Bolts should be tightened in a star pattern, half a turn at a time until all bolts are tight, and then torqued down appropriately. If the cover is not bolted down evenly, the diaphragm may lower unevenly and cause the self-adjusting mechanism to prematurely compensate.
2. If the vehicle uses a concentric slave cylinder, it is vital that it is bled carefully, ensuring the slave cylinder and pedal return to their normal position before being pressed again to avoid over-stroking the slave cylinder and diaphragm. If the diaphragm is over-stroked it can apply excessive pressure on the self-adjusting mechanism and cause it to prematurely compensate.
