Intermediate plate positioner means for a friction clutch assembly

摘要

An intermediate plate positioner device for a multiple disk friction clutch assembly is disclosed. A plurality of apertures are formed about the periphery of the intermediate plate. A positioner pin is inserted in each of the apertures extending between the flywheel and the cover of the clutch assembly. Each positioner pin is sized relative to its respective aperture so as to provide an interference fit therebetween. The force required to axially slide each positioner pin through its respective aperture is predetermined to be less than the force generated by clutch springs, which urge the clutch assembly toward an engaged position, but greater than the force exerted by the drive straps of the clutch assembly, which urge the intermediate plate toward a disengaged position. As the friction faces of the clutch assembly wear thinner during use, the position of the intermediate plate relative to the clutch cover in the disengaged position is varied by engagement of the positioner pins with the flywheel clutch cover.