Chrysler Stratus Convertible. Manual - part 211

assembly (Fig. 1), a sleeve type release bearing, a self
adjusting clutch cable, and a clutch pedal that is part
of a brake/clutch pedal bracket assembly (Fig. 2).

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 the
clutch disc within. The modular clutch can only be
serviced as an assembly.

OPERATION

A sleeve-type release bearing is used to engage and

disengage the clutch cover pressure plate. The
release bearing is operated by a pivoting release fork
in the clutch housing. The fork pivots on a ball stud
within the housing. The release fork is actuated by a
self-adjusting clutch cable.

Fig. 1 Modular Clutch Assembly

1 – MODULAR CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

CLUTCH

6 - 1

The clutch cable has a unique self-adjuster mecha-

nism built into the cable which compensates for
clutch disc wear (Fig. 3). The preload spring main-
tains tension on the cable. This tension keeps the
clutch release bearing continuously loaded against
the fingers of the clutch cover assembly. The cable
requires no maintenance or lubrication.

The clutch pedal is connected to the cable through

a plastic spacer. The upper end of the clutch pedal
pivots in the pedal bracket on two nylon bushings
and a shaft (Fig. 2).

CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH

The clutch pedal position switch functions as a

safety interlock device. It prevents possible engine
cranking with the clutch engaged.

The clutch pedal position switch is wired in series

between the starter relay coil and the ignition
switch.

The clutch pedal position switch is mounted to a

bracket located behind the clutch pedal. The switch
is held in place by four plastic wing tabs.

The clutch pedal position switch IS NOT adjust-

able. The pedal blade contacts the switch in the down
position (Fig. 4).

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH

CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH–ELECTRICAL
TEST

Disconnect clutch pedal position switch harness

from instrument panel wiring harness. Using an
ohmmeter, check for continuity between the two ter-
minals in the connector on the switch harness. There
should be no continuity between the terminals when
the switch is in its normal (fully extended) position.
When the switch is depressed more than 1.25 mm

Fig. 2 Clutch Pedal Components

1 – BRAKE PEDAL PIVOT PIN
2 – CABLE END
3 – UPSTOP/SPACER
4 – PEDAL BUSHINGS
5 – BRAKE PEDAL
6 – PEDAL BRACKET
7 – CLUTCH PEDAL
8 – PEDAL BUSHINGS
9 – CLUTCH CABLE
10 – CLUTCH PEDAL PIVOT PIN

Fig. 3 Clutch Cable Routing

1 – CLUTCH CABLE AT CLUTCH PEDAL
2 – CLUTCH CABLE AT TRANSAXLE

Fig. 4 Clutch Pedal Position Switch and

Components

1 – UPSTOP/SPACER
2 – CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH
3 – CLUTCH PEDAL
4 – CLUTCH PEDAL RETURN SPRING
5 – CLUTCH CABLE

6 - 2

CLUTCH

DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

(0.050), the ohmmeter should show continuity (zero
ohms).

If ohmmeter readings do not fall within these

ranges, the switch is defective, and must be replaced.

CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH–MECHANICAL
TEST

With the park brake set and the vehicle IN NEU-

TRAL, turn the key to the start position. The vehicle
should not crank. If the vehicle cranks, the switch is
defective (shorted out) and must be replaced. If the
vehicle does not crank proceed to the next step.

WARNING: BEFORE PERFORMING THIS STEP, BE
SURE THAT THE AREA IN FRONT OF THE VEHICLE
IS CLEAR OF OBSTRUCTIONS AND PEOPLE. VEHI-
CLE MAY MOVE WHEN PERFORMING THIS TEST.

With the park brake set and the vehicle IN GEAR,

turn the key to the start position and hold it there.

Slowly depress the clutch pedal and feel for any

vehicle motion when the starter is energized. If there
is no motion the switch is working properly.

If motion is felt, check to see if the switch is mak-

ing contact when the pedal is between 25 mm (1.0
in.) and 6 mm (0.25 in.) from the floor. If this condi-
tion is met, then the problem is either the clutch or
the self-adjusting cable (See “Clutch Will Not Disen-
gage Properly”). If this condition is not met, then the
switch mounting tab on the brake bracket is bent,
and the brake bracket must be replaced.

If vehicle will not crank, even with clutch pedal

pressed to the floor, refer to “Service Diagnosis-
Clutch Pedal Position Switch” chart in this section.

SERVICE DIAGNOSIS–CLUTCH PEDAL POSITION SWITCH

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSES

CORRECTION

ENGINE WON’T CRANK
WHEN CLUTCH PEDAL IS
PRESSED TO THE FLOOR

Switch does not have continuity
when plunger is depressed 1.25 mm

Defective switch. Replace switch.

Switch plunger is not depressed
when clutch pedal is pushed to the
floor

Floor mat interferes with clutch pedal
movement. Move floor mat out of the way.

Problem is related to other
components in the starting circuit

Check other components in the starting
circuit. Refer to Section 8A, Battery/
Starting/Charging System.

CLUTCH DIAGNOSIS

Problem diagnosis will generally require a road

test to determine the type of fault. Component
inspection will then determine the problem after road
testing.

Drive the vehicle at normal speeds during road

test. Shift the transaxle through all gear ranges and

observe clutch action. If chatter, grab, slip, or
improper release is experienced, remove and inspect
the clutch components. If the problem is noise or
hard shifting, further diagnosis may be needed. The
transaxle or other driveline components may actually
be at fault.

CLUTCH

6 - 3

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

SERVICE DIAGNOSIS—CLUTCH GRAB/CHATTER

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSES

CORRECTION

CLUTCH DISC FACING
COVERED WITH OIL OR
GREASE

Oil leak at engine rear main or
transaxle input shaft seal

Correct leak and replace modular clutch
assembly

Too much grease applied to splines
of disc and input shaft

Apply lighter coating of grease to splines

NO FAULT FOUND WITH
CLUTCH
COMPONENTS

Problem actually related to
suspension or driveline component

Further diagnosis required. Check
engine/transmission mounts, suspension
attaching parts and other driveline
components as needed.

Engine related problems

Check EFI and ignition systems

PARTIAL ENGAGEMENT
OF CLUTCH DISC

Clutch cover, spring, or release
fingers bent, distorted (rough
handling, improper assembly)

Replace modular clutch assembly

Clutch disc damaged or distorted

Replace modular clutch assembly

Clutch misalignment

Check alignment and runout of flywheel,
disc, or cover. Check clutch housing to
engine dowels and dowel holes for
damage. Correct as necessary.

SERVICE DIAGNOSIS—CLUTCH SLIPS

CONDITION

POSSIBLE CAUSES

CORRECTION

DISC FACING WORN OUT

Normal wear.

Replace modular clutch assembly.

Driver frequently rides (slips) clutch,
results in rapid wear overheating.

Replace modular clutch assembly

Insufficient clutch cover diaphragm
spring tension

Replace modular clutch assembly

CLUTCH DISC FACING
CONTAMINATED WITH
OIL OR GREASE

Leak at rear main oil seal or
transaxle input shaft seal

Replace leaking seals. Replace modular
clutch assembly.

Excessive amount of grease applied
to input shaft splines

Apply less grease to input shaft. Replace
modular clutch assembly

Road splash, water entering housing

Seal housing. Inspect modular clutch
assembly.

CLUTCH IS RUNNING
PARTIALLY DISENGAGED

Release bearing sticking or binding,
does not return to normal running
position.

Verify that bearing is actually binding. Then,
replace bearing and transmission front
bearing retainer if sleeve surface is
damaged.

Cable self-adjuster mechanism
sticking or binding causing high
preload

Verify that self-adjuster is free to move

CLUTCH DISC FACINGS
HAVE FRACTURED INTO
SMALL PIECES

Driver performs a 5-1 downshift at
vehicle speed in excess of 60 miles
per hour

Alert driver to problem cause. Replace
modular clutch assembly.

Leak at rear main or transaxle input
shaft seal

Replace modular clutch assembly. Replace
seal.

Excessive heat from slippage

Replace modular clutch assembly

6 - 4

CLUTCH

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

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