Technician Handbook ! 302 Manual Transmissions & Transaxles Clutch Hub and Damper Assembly The internal splines of the clutch hub fit over the external splines of the transmission input shaft allowing the clutch hub to move back and forth smoothly. Most clutch discs include a damper assembly to reduce or eliminate torsional vibrations that occur from uneven engine and drivetrain power pulses. Throughout the engine power cycle, the crankshaft speeds up and slows down during each revolution. The damper removes slight speed fluctuations, which prevent vibration, gear rattle, noise and wear to the transmission and drivetrain.
The damper assembly consists of a hub flange that pivots between the disc plate, and cover plate. Each of these components have four to six openings in which the torsion dampers are located, allowing torque to pass from the disc plate and cover plate to the hub flange and hub. The torsion dampers absorb the shock of clutch engagement, acceleration and deceleration and power pulses from the engine. Technical Training 11