
CLUTCH
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
MODULAR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY..............1
CLUTCH CABLE..........................1
CLUTCH INTERLOCK/UPSTOP SWITCH........1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
CLUTCH SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS...............2
DRIVE PLATE MISALIGNMENT..............5
CLUTCH CHATTER COMPLAINTS............5
CLASH±INTO±REVERSE COMPLAINTS........5
CLUTCH INTERLOCK/UPSTOP SWITCH........5REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
CLUTCH CABLE..........................7
CLUTCH INTERLOCK/UPSTOP SWITCH........8
MODULAR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY..............8
RELEASE BEARING AND FORK.............12
CLEANING AND INSPECTION
CLUTCH CONTAMINATION.................12
CLEANING PRECAUTIONS.................13
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE...............................13
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
MODULAR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
All 2.0L SOHC engines equipped with the A578
5-speed transaxle use a modular clutch assembly
(Fig. 1). The transaxle must be removed to gain
access to and replace the modular clutch, drive plate,
and/or clutch release bearing and lever.
The modular clutch assembly used in this vehicle
consists of a single, dry-type clutch disc, a diaphragm
style clutch cover, and an integrated flywheel. The
clutch cover is riveted to the flywheel, containing theclutch disc within. The modular clutch can only be
serviced as an assembly.
The clutch disc has cushion springs riveted to the
disc hub assembly. The clutch disc facings are riveted
to the cushion springs. The facings are made from a
non-asbestos material.
The clutch cover pressure plate assembly is a dia-
phragm type unit with a one-piece diaphragm spring
with multiple release fingers. The pressure plate
release fingers are preset during manufacture and
are not adjustable.
CLUTCH CABLE
The clutch cable assembly (Fig. 2) carries the
movement of the clutch pedal to the clutch release
bearing. The cable is designed to maintain tension
against the clutch fork, or lever, and has a built in
self-adjusting mechanism, which compensates for
clutch disc wear.
CLUTCH INTERLOCK/UPSTOP SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The clutch interlock/upstop switch is an assembly
consisting of two switches: an engine starter inhibit
switch (interlock) and a clutch pedal upstop switch
(Fig. 3). The switch assembly is located in the clutch/
brake pedal bracket assembly (Fig. 4), each switch
being fastened by four plastic wing tabs.
OPERATION
Clutch Interlock Switch
The clutch interlock switch prevents engine starter
operation and inadvertent vehicle movement with the
clutch engaged and the transaxle in gear.
Fig. 1 Modular Clutch Assembly
1 ± MODULAR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
PLCLUTCH 6 - 1

CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
CLUTCH DISC
FACINGS HAVE
FRACTURED INTO
SMALL PIECESDriver performs a 5-1 downshift at vehicle
speed in excess of 60 miles per hourAlert driver to problem cause. Replace
modular clutch assembly.
Leak at rear main or transaxle input shaft
sealReplace modular clutch assembly. Replace
seal.
Excessive heat from slippage Replace modular clutch assembly
SERVICE DIAGNOSISÐIMPROPER CLUTCH RELEASE
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
CLUTCH DISC
BINDS ON INPUT
SHAFT SPLINESClutch disc hub splines damaged during
installationClean, smooth, and lubricate disc and shaft
splines. Replace modular clutch assembly
and/or input shaft if splines are severely
damaged.
Input shaft splines rough, damaged. Clean input shaft splines. Then lube.
Corrosion or rust formations on splines of
input shaft and discClean input shaft splines and disc splines,
then lube
CLUTCH DISC
RUSTED TO
FLYWHEEL
AND/OR
PRESSURE PLATEOccurs in vehicles stored or not driven for
extended period of time. Also occurs after
steam cleaning if vehicle is not used for
extended period.Replace modular clutch assembly
CLUTCH WILL NOT
DISENGAGE
PROPERLYDisc bent, distorted during transaxle
installationReplace modular clutch assembly
Clutch cover diaphragm spring damaged
during transaxle installationReplace modular clutch assembly
Release fork bent, loose, or damaged Replace fork if worn or damaged
Clutch cable binding or routed incorrectly Check and correct cable routing
Self-adjuster in cable not functioning
properly, resulting in excess cable slackPull on cable conduit at transaxle (as if
disconnecting cable) to check adjuster
operation
SERVICE DIAGNOSIS±CLUTCH PEDAL NOISE
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
CLUTCH PEDAL
MAKES REPEATED
ªPOPº NOISE IN
THE FIRST INCH
OF TRAVELSelf-adjusting mechanism in cable defective Replace clutch cable
CLUTCH PEDAL
SQUEAKS WHEN
DEPRESSED TO
FLOORPedal bushings worn out or inadequate
lubricationReplace or lubricate bushings
Clutch pedal return spring worn out Lubricate or replace return spring
Clutch release lever pivot stud has
inadequate lubricationLubricate or replace clutch release lever
6 - 4 CLUTCHPL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

DRIVE PLATE MISALIGNMENT
Common causes of misalignment are:
²Heat warping
²Mounting drive plate on a dirty crankshaft
flange
²Incorrect bolt tightening
²Improper seating on the crankshaft shoulder
²Loose crankshaft bolts
Clean the crankshaft flange before mounting the
drive plate. Dirt and grease on the flange surface
may misalign the flywheel, causing excessive runout.
Use new bolts when mounting drive plate to crank-
shaft. Tighten drive plate bolts to specified torque
only. Over-tightening can distort the drive plate hub
causing excessive runout.
CLUTCH CHATTER COMPLAINTS
For all clutch chatter complaints, do the following:
(1) Check for loose, misaligned, or broken engine
and transmission mounts. If present, they should be
corrected at this time. Test vehicle for chatter. If
chatter is gone, there is no need to go any further. If
chatter persists:
(2) Check to see if clutch cable routing is correct
and operates smoothly.
(3) Check for loose connections in drive train. Cor-
rect any problems and determine if clutch chatter
complaints have been satisfied. If not:
(4) Remove transaxle. See Group 21, Manual Tran-
saxle for procedure.
(5) Check to see if the release bearing is sticky or
binding. Replace bearing, if needed.
(6) Check linkage for excessive wear on the pivot
stud and fork fingers. Replace all worn parts.
(7) Check clutch assembly for contamination (dirt,
oil). Replace clutch assembly, if required.
(8) Check to see if the clutch disc hub splines are
damaged. Replace with new clutch assembly, if nec-
essary.
(9) Check input shaft splines for damage. Replace,
if necessary.
(10) Check for uneven wear on clutch fingers.
(11) Check for broken clutch cover diaphragm
spring fingers. Replace with new clutch assembly, if
necessary.
CLASH±INTO±REVERSE COMPLAINTS
Certain NV T350 (A-578) manual transaxles are
equipped with a reverse brake. It prevents clash
when shifting into reverse, but only if the vehicle is
not moving. See Group 21, Transaxle for further
diagnosis.
(1) Depress clutch pedal to floor and hold. After
three seconds, shift to reverse. If clash is present,
clutch has excessive spin time, and the reverse brake
may not be functioning.(2) Remove transaxle. See Group 21, Manual Tran-
saxle for procedure.
(3) Check the input shaft spline, clutch disc
splines, and release bearing for dry rust. If present,
clean rust off and apply a light coat of bearing grease
to the input shaft splines. Apply grease on the input
shaft splines only where the clutch disc slides. Verify
that the clutch disc slides freely along the input shaft
spline.
(4) Check to see if the clutch disc hub splines are
damaged, and replace with new clutch assembly if
required.
(5) Check the input shaft for damaged splines.
Replace as necessary.
(6) Check for broken clutch cover diaphragm
spring fingers.
(7) Install clutch assembly and transaxle.
CLUTCH INTERLOCK/UPSTOP SWITCH
The clutch interlock/upstop switch is an assembly
consisting of two switches: an engine starter inhibit
switch (clutch interlock) and a clutch pedal upstop
switch (Fig. 5). The switch assembly is located in the
clutch/brake pedal bracket assembly (Fig. 6), each
switch being fastened by four plastic wing tabs.
CLUTCH INTERLOCK SWITCH
Mechanical Test
(1) With the park brake set and the transaxleIN
NEUTRAL,turn the ignition key to the start posi-
tion. The engine starter should not crank with the
clutch pedal at rest (not depressed). If the starter
cranks, proceed to the electrical test to determine
whether the switch is defective or the circuit is
shorted. If the vehicle does not crank, proceed to the
next step.
(2) With the park brake set and the transaxleIN
NEUTRAL,fully depress the clutch pedal and turn
Fig. 5 Clutch Interlock/Upstop Switch
1 ± UPSTOP SWITCH
2 ± INTERLOCK SWITCH
3 ± CONNECTOR
PLCLUTCH 6 - 5
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
MAIN BEARING NOISE 1. Insufficient oil supply. 1. Check engine oil level.
2. Low oil pressure. 2. Check engine oil level. Inspect oil
pump relief valve and spring.
3. Thin or diluted oil. 3. Change oil to correct viscosity.
4. Excessive bearing clearance. 4. Measure bearings for correct
clearance. Repair as necessary.
5. Excessive end play. 5. Check thrust bearing for wear on
flanges.
6. Crankshaft journal out-of-round
or worn.6. Replace crankshaft or grind
journals.
7. Loose flywheel or torque
converter.7. Tighten to correct torque.
OIL PRESSURE DROP 1. Low oil level. 1. Check engine oil level.
2. Faulty oil pressure sending unit. 2. Install new sending unit.
3. Low oil pressure. 3. Check sending unit and main
bearing oil clearance.
4. Clogged oil filter. 4. Install new oil filter.
5. Worn parts in oil pump. 5. Replace worn parts or pump.
6. Thin or diluted oil. 6. Change oil to correct viscosity.
7. Oil pump relief valve stuck. 7. Remove valve and inspect, clean,
or replace.
8. Oil pump suction tube loose. 8. Remove oil pan and install new
tube or clean, if necessary.
9. Oil pump cover warped or
cracked.9. Install new oil pump.
10. Excessive bearing clearance. 10. Measure bearings for correct
clearance.
OIL LEAKS 1. Misaligned or deteriorated
gaskets.1. Replace gasket(s).
2. Loose fastener, broken or porous
metal part.2. Tighten, repair or replace the
part.
3. Misaligned or deteriorated cup or
threaded plug.3. Replace as necessary.
PLENGINE 9 - 13
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

CRANKSHAFT
REMOVAL
(1) Remove engine assembly. Refer to procedure in
this section.
(2) Remove structural collar from oil pan to tran-
saxle housing.
(3) Separate transaxle from engine.
(4) Remove drive plate/flywheel.
(5) Remove crankshaft rear oil seal. Refer to pro-
cedure in this section.
(6) Mount engine on a suitable repair stand.
(7) Remove crankshaft damper, timing belt, and
tensioner. Refer to procedures in this section.
(8) Remove camshaft sprocket and rear timing belt
cover. Refer to procedures in this section.
(9) Remove crankshaft sprocket. Refer to proce-
dure in this section.(10) Remove lower torque strut/air conditioning
compressor mounting bracket from engine (Fig. 95).
(11) Remove oil filter and adapter.
(12) Remove oil pan.
(13) Remove oil pump pick-up tube.
(14) Remove oil pump.
(15) Remove crankshaft position sensor.
(16) Using a permanent ink or paint marker, iden-
tify cylinder number on each connecting rod cap.
CAUTION: DO NOT use a number stamp or a punch
to mark connecting rods. Damage to connecting
rod could occur.
(17) Remove all connecting rod bolts and caps.
Care should be taken not to damage the fracture rod
and cap surfaces.
Fig. 94 Crankshaft and Components
1 ± OIL PASSAGE O-RING
2 ± SEAL
3 ± UPPER BEARING (GROOVED)
4 ± THRUST BEARINGS
5 ± BOLT
6 ± O-RING
7 ± NIPPLE8 ± OIL FILTER ADAPTER
9 ± CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (CPS)
10 ± MAIN BEARING CAP/BED PLATE ASSEMBLY
11 ± CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS
12 ± PISTON AND CONNECTING ROD ASSEMBLY
13 ± SEAL
9 - 52 2.0L SOHC ENGINEPL
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

(17) Install rear timing belt cover and camshaft
sprocket.
(18) Install crankshaft sprocket, timing belt ten-
sioner, timing belt, and cover.
(19) Install front engine mount bracket.
(20) Remove engine from repair stand and position
on Special Tools 6135 and 6710 Engine Dolly and
Cradle. Install safety straps around the engine to
cradle and tighten and lock them into position.
(21) Install crankshaft rear oil seal. Refer to proce-
dure in this section.
(22) Install drive plate/flywheel. Apply Mopart
Lock & Seal Adhesive to bolt threads and tighten to
95 N´m (70 ft. lbs.).
(23) Install transaxle to engine.
(24) Install structural collar. Refer to procedure in
this section.
(25) Install engine assembly. Refer to procedure in
this section.
(26) Perform camshaft and crankshaft timing
relearn procedure as follows:
²Connect the DRB scan tool to the data link
(diagnostic) connector. This connector is located in
the passenger compartment; at the lower edge of
instrument panel; near the steering column.
²Turn the ignition switch on and access the ªmis-
cellaneousº screen.
²Select ªre-learn cam/crankº option and follow
directions on DRB screen.
OIL FILTER ADAPTER
REMOVE AND INSTALL
Ensure O-ring is in the groove on adapter. Align
roll pin into engine block and tighten assembly to 80
N´m (60 ft. lbs.) (Fig. 101).
OIL FILTER
REMOVE AND INSTALL
CAUTION: When servicing the oil filter (Fig. 102),
avoid deforming the filter. Use an appropriate oil fil-
ter removing tool. Position filter wrench strap close
the seam at the base of the filter. The oil filter seam
that joins the can to the base, is reinforced by the
base plate.
(1) Turn filter counterclockwise to remove.
(2) Clean and check the filter mounting surface.
The surface must be smooth, flat and free of debris
or old pieces of rubber.
(3) To install, lubricate new filter gasket. Screw fil-
ter on until gasket contacts base. Tighten to 21 N´m
(15 ft. lbs.).
OIL PUMP
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect negative cable from battery.
(2) Remove crankshaft damper, timing belt, and
tensioner. Refer to procedures in this section.
(3) Remove camshaft sprocket and rear timing belt
cover. Refer to procedures in this section.
(4) Remove oil pan. Refer to procedure in this sec-
tion.
(5) Remove crankshaft sprocket using Special Tool
6793 and insert C-4685-C2 (Fig. 103).
(6) Remove oil pick-up tube.
(7) Remove oil pump (Fig. 104) and front crank-
shaft seal.
Fig. 101 Engine Oil Filter Adapter to Engine Block
1 ± O-RING
2 ± LOCATING ROLL PIN
3 ± OIL FILTER ADAPTER
Fig. 102 Engine Oil Filter
1 ± OIL FILTER
2 ± DRAIN PLUG
PL2.0L SOHC ENGINE 9 - 55
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)