CLUTCH CLUTCH When the clutch wears, the release bearing gradually moves toward the engine, decreasing free pedal and free travel. When all free pedal and free travel are gone, the clutch requires adjustment. Clutch Adjustment - Normal Wear Introduction Free pedal is the distance the clutch pedal moves by applying only slight pressure. During free pedal the release yoke in the transmission moves until its bearing pads contact the release bearing. This movement of the release yoke is called free travel. Thus, free pedal and free travel are directly related to each other. Clutch pedal free travel is usually 1 3/4 in. to 2 in. (34 to 51 mm).
This should be your guide for determining whether your truck needs clutch adjustment. Also, if it becomes increasingly difficult to shift into gears, or the truck creeps with the clutch pedal depressed, your clutch needs adjustment. See the Maintenance Manual for the proper adjustment procedures. The clutch is adjusted by turning an adjustment ring that is built into the clutch. When the ring is turned, the release bearing moves back toward the transmission, restoring free pedal and clutch free travel. Under normal clutch wear this is the only adjustment needed. Do not attempt to change any other component.
As the clutch pedal is depressed further, with harder pressure, the release yoke moves the release bearing away from the engine. This causes the clutch plate to release from the driven disks in the clutch. This is called release travel. And finally, on 9-, 10-, and 11-speed transmissions, as the pedal is pushed to the last 1/2 to 1 inch of travel, the release bearing contacts and engages the clutch brake. This is called clutch brake squeeze. Some vehicles have automatic clutch adjustment. If yours doesn't have this feature, adjustment will have to be done by a trained certified mechanic. Have the adjustment done before clutch pedal free travel is reduced to the minimum allowable 1/2 in.
(13 mm). 5 (03/17) Y53-6077-1B1 5-155