It is difficult to say how much mileage you will get out of your factory clutch because more figures into it than the park itself. How you drive your automobile can greatly reduce or increase the life you get from the clutch. To give you a general time span, Horizon Auto Center advises you should get between 50,000 miles and 100,000 miles out of the factory clutch. If you are having any of the problems listed below, the clutch needs to be replaced.
A Strange Sensation
When the clutch is too old, it will change the way it feels underneath your foot. You will notice that the clutch feels softer and spongier when you press down on it. This is a sign that the clutch is wearing out internally. In some cases, we may be able to restore the clutch by rebuilding it. It really depends on which parts have worn out. In severe cases, we will have to replace the clutch.
High Catch Point
Another feel that is going to change is the catch point in the clutch. Also referred to as the bite point, this is the place in the clutch where it gives and you shift gears. As the clutch ages, this point will get higher, which can make it difficult for you to shift gears. Your muscles remember the point being at a different location, so you may try to shift the gears when the clutch is not at the bite point.
Overheating Clutch
Another thing that can make shifting the gears difficult is an overheating clutch. When the clutch smells hot, it is slipping. What this means is that the clutch will go into engagement and move the power from the engine to the transmission only to go out of engagement and release the power back to the engine. This will happen without you releasing the clutch itself.
Difficulty Shifting Gears
Consequently, and as you can imagine, you will have one heck of a time changing gears if the clutch disengaged before you released it. The power will be with the engine and the gears will grind and your stick shift will fight you when you try to change gears.
Lagging Acceleration
Finally, your acceleration is also going to lag. The reason why is that the power needs to remain with the transmission so it can power the drivetrain. This turns the wheels.
Horizon Auto Center in Rockwall, TX, is here to help, so give us a call today. We can rebuild or replace your clutch if it needs it.
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