Sportage 2WD 2Dr L4-2.0L (2002)
Clutch: Description and Operation
Forward Clutch
Forward Clutch
The forward clutch is applied in all forward gears.
Pressure from the valve body is applied to the forward clutch from the oil pump via the overdrive brake housing rear support and seal rings. The
piston is located in the bottom of the forward clutch housing and held in position by return springs, a retainer and a snap ring. Fluid entering the
underside of the forward clutch piston is retained by neoprene (rubber) O-rings inside and outside of the piston.
Applying pressurized fluid forces the piston to move against the return springs, compresses the discs and plates and engages the clutch. The coil
(return) springs provide no mechanical advantage.
The forward clutch discs are splined to the forward clutch hub. The plates and the direct clutch hub are splined to the forward clutch housing. The
forward clutch housing is splined to the overdrive planetary ring gear.
A specific clearance is required between the discs and plates to allow them to move freely when not engaged. This clearance is controlled by the
thickness of the plates and discs. Excessive clearance indicates plate and/or disc wear. Insufficient clearance indicates improper assembly or overhaul
procedures.
In operation, the discs engage the plates and cause the forward clutch hub to drive the intermediate shaft, which drives the rear planetary carrier. The
direct clutch hub rotates with the forward clutch housing at all times.
A check ball in the piston traps pressure when the piston is applied and allows residual pressure to escape after the piston is released.
There are two snap rings used in the forward clutch assembly: a thin snap ring for all but one clutch disc of the clutch pack and the other for the direct
clutch hub.
