What is the acceptable free travel range for the clutch pedal on a Spicer double plate clutch?

• A. 1/2 to 1 inch
• B. 1-1/2 to 2 inches
• C. 2-3 inches
• D. 3-4 inches

Answer: (B)

The question is about how much free movement the clutch pedal should have before the release mechanism starts to disengage the clutch. For a Spicer double plate clutch, the acceptable free travel is about 1-1/2 to 2 inches. This range gives the throw-out bearing a little clearance and time to begin moving the pressure plate, while still leaving enough pedal travel for the driver to fully disengage the clutch.

If the free travel is too short, the clutch may not completely release, leading to clutch drag, hard or grinding gears, or difficulty shifting. If the free travel is too long, the release bearing may engage too late or the linkage can become sloppy, causing late engagement and added wear or heat in the release mechanism. Keeping the travel in the 1-1/2 to 2 inch range helps ensure smooth disengagement, proper engagement, and even wear of the clutch components.