If during the movement of the car there is a burning smell, if acceleration has noticeably deteriorated, if the speed begins to fall when overcoming an uphill - all these are symptoms of clutch slipping. To determine the malfunction more precisely, apply the handbrake with the engine running and shift into gear. If the clutch is working properly, the engine will stall; if the clutch is slipping, it will continue to work.
Frequently common reasons for this unpleasant phenomenon are violation of the clutch pedal free play, oiling of the friction linings in the mechanism, wear of the pressure springs or a malfunction in the hydraulic cut-off drive. It is he who ensures the operation of the mechanism when slipping. The measured value is compared with the one laid down according to the instructions for the car. If there are discrepancies, adjust in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the same instructions. If the free play of the pedal is correct, check the oiliness of the friction linings. This is more likely to occur due to an increased oil level in the gearbox or a clogged flywheel drain hole, as well as careless lubrication of the gearbox input shaft thrust bearing. Oily linings are washed with gasoline (kerosene), wiped dry and cleaned with fine sandpaper. A heavily oiled disc is changed along with the friction linings and the causes of oiling are eliminated. When the friction linings of the driven disc are worn out, the clutch can also slip, since the free travel of the clutch pedal decreases. With a slight wear of the pads, the free play is adjusted, with significant wear, the driven disk is replaced along with the worn pads. Also, friction linings must be replaced when cracks are found on their surfaces, with their uneven wear and tear. Loss of elasticity of pressure springs is a natural process that manifests itself as a result of their long-term operation. However, they do not create sufficient pressure on the driven disc, and the clutch begins to slip. To check the condition of these springs, special tools and devices are required, therefore it is recommended to do this at a service center. Another reason for the clutch slipping may be swelling of rubber parts or clogging of the compensation hole in the hydraulic shut-off drive. These parts can be: rubber o-rings and rubber ring floating valve of the master cylinder piston, rubber seals of the working cylinder. The reasons for their swelling are the use of low-quality or inappropriate brake fluid, as well as the ingress of gasoline, kerosene or mineral oil into it.
