Automatic Clutch

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 23275, 18 February 1939, Page 14 (Supplement)

Automatic Clutch

INVENTION RECALLED In view of the introduction by Chevrolet this year of vacuum gear mechanism, it is interesting to recall the fact that several years ago, Mr. E. C. Sehofield, who is attached to the Auckland agency for this car, demonstrated an invention of his own, which was basically a vacuum-operated clutch. The automatic clutch, operated by air pressure from tho intake manifold, was fitted to the engine of a Buick car. Tho effect of it was that when the throttle was closed tho clutch auto-' ntatically, disengaged, and as the throttle was opened it gradually reengaged. The result was that the clutch was not operated by the driver at all. With tho motor idling, the clutch was automatically disengaged, thus making it possible to mesh any gear. On depressing the accelerator the clutch engaged smoothly and a normal start was made. For ciiangiiig gear it. was necessary only to release the accelerator, wait an instant for the apparatus to function, and then move the gear lever in the normal way. Similarly when stopping,, the driver had only to release the accelerator and apply the brakes, the automatic device taking care of the clutch. On the model demonstrated, the clutch pedal was left protruding through the floor in the ordinary way. Drivers who tested the car were thus able to see for themselves when the automatic equipment was working, as the pedal actually moved ±q change a£~<cuaii> i