The clutch is single dry plate type, with flexible spring coupling and thrust release. The clutch release is implemented by a co-axial hydraulically operated device known as the "CSC system".On all versions, friction materials free from non-environmentally friendly components have been adopted; special care has been taken in the development of new materials and the clutch assembly, with a view to guaranteeing excellent performance in terms of modulation and driving comfort with a consequent reduction in weight compared with traditional hydraulic operation. In particular the clutch pump has undergone a considerable improvement compared with the components usually adopted.
CLUTCH HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
The co-axial, hydraulically operated clutch release system is known as the "CSC system". This type of operation, which integrates the hydraulic actuator with the thrust bearing, makes it possible to maintain the performance of the system during the working life of the clutch and contributes to the reduction in noise and vibrations transmitted by the pedal.
The CSC system is known as co-axial because the release actuator consists of an aluminium ring cylinder, fitted inside the clutch bell housing, positioned between the gearbox and the clutch mechanisms, co-axially in relation to the main shaft.The advantage of the CSC system compared with conventional systems lies in the absence of kinematic couplings and friction resulting in improved reliability and functionality, making it easy to maintain.The system features the following characteristics:- constant adjustment of the clutch pedal height;- constant force applied to the pedal over a period of time;- elimination of any difficulties with the clutch pedal return;- reduction of noise and vibrations transmitted to the pedal through the action of a vibration damper positioned in the cylinder oil pipe.The pipe is connected to the actuator by means of a quick coupling with a built-in bleed valve.The absence of a transmission crank mechanism found in traditional systems, the adoption of a clutch pump with plastic casing and piston and the use of plastic in the construction of the pedal unit has also allowed for a notable reduction in noise and in the overall weight of the system.CSC HYDRAULIC ACTUATOR CYLINDER
1. Oil intake pipe2. Expansion chamber3. Piston4. Thrust bearing5. Threaded closing flange6. O-ring7. Anti-wear pads8. Rubber gaiter9. Spring10. Guide pipe11. Oil seal housingThe clutch release takes place through the action of the clutch pump which sends oil, under pressure, via the pipe (1), into the expansion chamber (2).The pressure of the oil causes the movement of the piston (3) which slides in the guide pipe (10) through the plastic anti-wear pads (7).The piston is integrated with the thrust bearing (4), which presses on the pressure springs, thereby releasing the clutch.As the pressure of the oil ceases, the actuator returns to the rest position by means of the thrust from the pressure springs.The seal against any gearbox oil leaks that could emanate from inside the clutch bell housing is guaranteed by an oil seal and an O-ring (6).There is a rubber gaiter (8), kept in position by a spring (9), as protection against the entry of any foreign bodies.
Clutch release pump
1. Case2. Steel cylinder3. Piston4. Gasket5. Piston detent fork6. Protective gaiter7. Operating rod8. Oil inlet9. Oil supply to CSC actuatorThe clutch release pump has been designed with a plastic piston and casing to reduce the weight and with the operating shaft secured (T interface) to the piston. There is a steel cylinder, inside the casing in the area where the piston seals slide, to prevent the wear and distortions which result from the pressure.The piston is prevented from coming out by a V-shaped piston detent fork, while a protective gaiter prevents the accumulation of dirt inside the cylinder.The piston upper and lower end stops in the pump casing also determine the upper and lower end positions of the pedal.
