OPERATING THE CLUTCH

Evening Post, Volume CIX, Issue 81, 5 April 1930, Page 27

OPERATING THE CLUTCH

The comparatively simple process Jt' | engaging first gear and moving off has its pitfalls. It may he, found that even- when tho clutch pedal is fully depressed it is impossiblo to engage low gear without some clashing of meshing gear wheels. This spinning can often be overcome by advancing the gear lever almost into the "reverse" position, and then smoothly but quickly drawing it into first gear. Improper operation of the clutch probably imposes the worst strains < on-the general mechanism of the car, and until tho owner has got the feel of his clutch he should be scrupulously care- j ful to let iv the clutch slowly and quietly, and without undue acceleration of the engine. Somo clutches "tako on" gradually, others engage moro or less suddenly; but a little practice will enable the' driver to judge at what speed his engine should bo revolving and how deliberately or carelessly he may allow the clutch pedal to return. A two-piece piston ring claimed to be very efficient is being produced in England; The main ring, which is of inverted L-scction, provides normal sealing of the piston, whilst that of smaller section forms a seal pompletely covering up the openings of the main ring. Tho L-section of tho ring is milled out, and a solid lug is left to act as a stop block to keep the ends of the secondary member from working around; thus the gaps of both Tings cannot coincide.