What can you do when the clutch is making noises or the clutch whistles? There are many different kinds of clutch noises. Whistling or whining from the clutch can be caused e.g. by the release bearing running off-center, an off-center input shaft, or a defective pilot bearing.
On the other hand, rattling noises may be due to load alterations if clutch disks are furnished with preliminary dampers. These noises do not impair the function or service life of the clutch.
Additional possible causes of the clutch making noises include installation of the wrong parts, or installation of the clutch disk in the wrong position. Clutch noises can also indicate a defect. The following questions are important for workshops: do the clutch noises occur during setting off or during disengaging? Do they occur when the clutch pedal is pressed, while pedaling, or in neutral position? Do noises occur when the clutch is engaged, while declutching, or at idle speed?
The clutch makes noises? The clutch whistles? Always check the following:
- Correct part installed?
- Correct installation position?
- Pilot bearing installed and not worn or defective?
- Condition (wear) of actuating system checked?
Causes of clutch noise
Cause:
- Low-revving driving style, i.e., driving at low speeds in high gear and full throttle
- Extreme irregular engine operation
- Worn joints in the driveline
Consequence:
- Overloading of components
Cause:
- Clutch bell housing and crankshaft housing flange not centered
- Wobbling motion due to angular or parallel offset
- Pilot bearing missing, transmission input shaft not guided
- Excessive angular movement during transmission installation
Consequence:
- Loose components brush adjacent parts.
Comment:
Also usually causes drag.
Cause:
- Off-center clutch releaser contact due to parallel offset
- Worn guide tube
- Insufficient clutch releaser preload
Consequence:
- Relative movements cause various types of noise.
- Relative movements cause excessive temperature.
Comment:
This leads to grease loss and therefore premature failure of the bearing.
Cause:
- Clutch bell housing and crankshaft housing flange not centered
- Wobbling motion due to angular or parallel offset
- Pilot bearing missing, transmission input shaft not guided
Consequence:
- Loss of connection between engine and transmission
Comment:
Causes drag problems and noise in early stages.
Cause:
- Clutch bell housing and crankshaft housing flange not centered
- Wobbling motion due to angular or parallel offset
- Pilot bearing missing, transmission input shaft not guided
- Excessive angular movement during transmission installation
Consequence:
- Loss of connection between engine and transmission
Comment:
Causes drag problems and noise in early stages.
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