Clutch Pack

[rcturner]

I am trying to understand what part RPMs make in the clamping pressure of the clutch pack. I understand that RPMs are an issue for the centrifugal clutch but the clamping force for the clutch pack appears to be mechanical, not hydraulic. The hydraulic part of the system looks to me like it is for decoupling, not clamping. Am I missing something?

 

[NancysToy]

I don't think you are missing a thing...for this particular clutch. An automotive type clutch does exert some centrifugal clamping pressure as rpm rises, but for the Spyder clutch there is no further increase once the centrifugal clutch (SE only) is fully engaged. It does engage over a range of rpm, however, so it starts to engage below the point where it is fully engaged. Also be aware that the SM has a vacuum clutch assist feature that helps disengage the clutch when the engine is running.

 

[Bob Denman]

:shocked:
Scotty,
You know that I love your ability to answer questions like this... :thumbup:
But you can re-phrase your response for those of us who are mechanically "challenged"? pps:
Thanks!

 

[gypsy_100]

I don't think you are missing a thing...for this particular clutch. An automotive type clutch does exert some centrifugal clamping pressure as rpm rises, but for the Spyder clutch there is no further increase once the centrifugal clutch (SE only) is fully engaged. It does engage over a range of rpm, however, so it starts to engage below the point where it is fully engaged. Also be aware that the SM has a vacuum clutch assist feature that helps disengage the clutch when the engine is running.

Absolutely correct. Think of it (SE) as having two means of engaging/disengaging the clutch. The hydraulic system is for quick, complete disengagement for shifting gears and then re-engagement. The centrifugal mechanism is for idling when stopped and then gradual engagement so you can pull away from a stop smoothly without stalling the engine. As the rev's build, the centrifugal mechanism engages further until fully engaged. It does not enter in to shifting gears. By engaging gradually and smoothly, the centrifugal mechanism simulates what you would be doing with the manual clutch on an SM. You start off the line by gradually engaging the clutch and not stalling the engine. When shifting gears, you quickly disengage and re-engage the manual clutch which is what the hydraulic system does on the SE.

The vacuum assist on the SM makes the clutch pull lighter so your hand does not have to work as hard pulling the lever.

Hope this helps.

 

[Bob Denman]

:thumbup: Yes; I've got my brain wrapped around it now! :thumbup: