Whenever a clutch is engaged, the entire clutch is used. This tends to create a lot of friction, and as a result a lot of heat to the clutch and all of its components. Because all of the workings of a clutch are going to be used every time a it is engaged, they are manufactured to fully withstand the everyday wear and tear that occurs every time it’s engaged. If the clutch is always used properly, it’s sure to last for many years to come.
If you think you have a busted clutch in your truck because your it’s sticking, it’s not only a good idea to fix it as soon as possible, it’s also a good idea to find out why in order to avoid possible problems in the future.
Common Reasons Why Your Truck’s Clutch is Failing
One of the more common reasons why a truck’s clutch may be failing is directly related to how the truck is being driven. Even though most truck drivers are familiar with the phrase ‘riding the clutch’, it’s a habit that many of them fall into that tends to create a lot of unnecessary wear and tear on the clutch. Resting a foot on the clutch when driving can also lead to clutch sticking, and accordingly having a busted clutch.
Other reasons why your truck’s clutch is failing include:
Slipping. When the clutch disk doesn’t rotate at the speed in which it’s supposed to, the clutch can slip causing the engine to accelerate very rapidly, which leads to a slipping clutch. If the slipping is minimal, it could be due to normal wear and tear and simply need a little adjusting.
Grabbing. If the clutch is vibrating severely, or the truck jerks when the gas pedal is pushed when standing still, then it’s highly likely that the clutch is grabbing. Grabbing often occurs when there are loose clutch parts, which means that if these parts are tightened up the clutch may stop grabbing. If there are no loose parts, then it may be a busted clutch that’s going to require a proper clutch service.
Dragging. If the clutch is not completely disengaging from the pressure plate, then it will continue to turn, resulting in problems when trying to shift gears. Dragging often occurs when there’s a lot of driving done that doesn’t require a lot of use of the clutch pedal.
Bottom Line
There’s many reasons why a truck might be on its way to having a busted clutch, and that’s why it’s always a good idea to first check some of the more common causes for why it may be failing. If the above reasons don’t describe your particular clutch problem, then it may be necessary to seek out a truck technician for professional service.