5 Signs That Your Semi Truck Clutch Maybe Failing

Professional semi truck drivers depend on their semi for livelihood. That is why, learning how to spot problem, especially semi truck clutch problem is important. Not saying that other parts and component are not, but a failing clutch poses problems that may lead to other parts failure. 

When this happen, there are 2 route for you to choose. You can either DIY or have your semi checked by a professional. If you choose the DIY route, you can check out parts at this commercial vehicle webstore.

What Is A Semi Truck Clutch?

To put it simply, a clutch is a mechanism that controls the power from the engine to the transmission.

The mechanism (clutch brake) stops the transmission input shaft from rotating. This allows the transmission and gears to work properly and to put transmission into gear when the semi is at a stand still.

The one furthers to the left would be your clutch pedal.

What Type Of Semi Truck Clutch Are Used?

Friction clutch is the clutch that is mounted on the truck. This clutch operate by means of a cable or hydraulic clutch. These differ in their torque capacities and is usually found in heavy duty trucks.

If you experience one or more of the following signs below, you might experience a failing clutch:

• Slipping truck clutch:  Driving with a worn friction plate means you are less likely to be able to apply enough force to the flywheel and pressure plate to turn the crankshaft. This problem often occurs when the engine is revving higher than normal when the clutch is engaged. Slip happens because there’s not enough friction between things that are slipping. It’s a common clutch wear problem. The clutch disengages a little faster than normal, and the acceleration is also slightly slower than usual. If the engine starts smoking or stalling, you need to check to see if the clutch has been engaging for more than an hour. You may have to adjust the tension on the clutch springs to avoid the clutch disengaging or losing its power.
• Sticky truck clutch:  A truck clutch that’s difficult to release, either because the linkage is not operating correctly, or the transmission has lost lubrication, could be an issue with any of three types of clutches: You should schedule an appointment with your mechanic before the problem gets worse.
• Hard truck clutch:  A clutch that is too loose or requires too much effort to engage should not be used. A clutch that is difficult to disengage should also not be used. A clutch pedal can become stuck, causing the clutch to remain depressed and the transmission to remain engaged, which is why you hear the latter when driving.
• Insufficient truck clutch pedal: A hard clutch can also play a role in the inadequate clutch pedal to give. If your clutch doesn’t have a two-inch “give” before engaging, then Any less or more give indicates that your clutch isn’t working as well as it could be
• Unusual transmission noise:  Although semitrucks are loud vehicles, they’re not noisy like other loud vehicles, but instead, they make weird noises. Truck drivers should be able to tell the difference between the sounds of a good, working transmission and those that are broken. Shifting should be smooth and fluid. If you’re hearing any grinding or screeching while shifting, it could indicate a bad clutch mechanism.  

Going for a regular truck maintenance is crucial to avoid expensive fixes or too much downtime with work. No matter the type semi truck parts you may need, rest assured that the knowledgeable and experienced team at Kian Chue Hwa has got you covered.

Contact our sale team to buy the right semi clutch part!