Clutch Disc Functions
To All,
A clutch disc has many separate functions and several design systems are commonly used to achieve the desired results. This discussion is focused on torsion dampers. A torsion damper is the series of coil springs, friction washers, wave springs bushings and other components in the center section of a clutch disc. In our Dodges we have had several design variations but the damper has two major functions, "This helps to eliminate torsional vibrations and/or shock loads from being transmitted from the engine to the transmission, or shock loads from being transmitted from the driveline to the engine" (Manual Transmission Clutch Systems SAE publication, AE-17 page 42, Dampened Disc defined). One of the most challenging jobs for the clutch disc is to satisfy the requirements for an application as far as a torsion damper, this is where we need to tip our hats to these talented engineers at the OE suppliers for their work. Now the aftermarket supplies clutch systems to meet the needs of those who demand more, that is one of our jobs. We all seem to want a little bit more from our trucks and our ZVT systems offer high torque capacity, driveability and performance, but with the "basic" torsion damper that we have chosen, we can't have the identical cab enviroment that the OE disc has, so its a trade off or compromise. As far as transmission syncronizer wear, if your system shifts cleanly, and the inertia of the clutch disc is not excessive, syncros only see wear during shifts, as soon as the gear is selected, the syncro has matched gear speeds and is no longer "active" If you would like to hear your gear noise, heat up the truck, pull next to a brick wall, roll the window down, select neutral and slowly engage the clutch, then disengage and repeat. You will hear whatever noise the transmission is making as rollover or gear noise. Remember Ford chose a DMF to get the job done for them and now the G56 has one and it looks a whole lot like the D-Max design, and Ford conversions from their DMF to a solid flywheel design are one of tour most popular sellers.