This is how the clutch works (Focus Turnier 1)

Clutch clearance: as long as the clutch pedal is not depressed, the release bearing maintains a distance from the disc spring of the clutch pressure plate. As the mileage increases, the clutch clearance decreases in the same way as the wear of the clutch disc: the disc spring of the pressure plate approaches the release bearing. As soon as the bearing begins to fit the disc spring without a gap, the pressure plate is unloaded. As a result, the clamping pressure of the driven disc to the mating surfaces of the flywheel and pressure plate is automatically reduced. If the clearance is not corrected, the clutch no longer transmits torque to the gearbox without slipping - the clutch slips.

Clutch disengagement: when you press the clutch pedal, the release bearing overcomes the force of the disc spring. The pressure plate is unloaded and is pulled back when the pedal is fully depressed. The driven disc rotates freely between the pressure plate and the flywheel.

Clutch engagement: the unloaded disc spring of the pressure plate presses the driven disc against the engine flywheel. At this stage, the friction linings of the clutch disc slide briefly on the flywheel and pressure plate. When the pedal is released, the contact pressure of the automatic clutch increases so much that the driven disc stops and the connection between the flywheel and the pressure plate closes. The engine power is completely transmitted to the gearbox.

"Clutch Killers"

The dubious reputation of "clutch killers" precedes those motorists who calmly set their car in motion with a "howling engine" and a slipping clutch: "clutch killers" with a "heavy clutch pedal" regularly create a dramatic situation between the friction linings of the clutch disc, the pressure plate and the flywheel. In the area of the slipping clutch, temperatures arise that quickly destroy the clutch disc and the pressure plate. Drivers who constantly keep their foot on the clutch pedal while driving pay for their convenience with increased wear. Another bad habit of "clutch killers": instead of engaging neutral and the handbrake (parking brake), they park their car at a red light or on hills with 1st gear engaged, with the clutch pedal and gas pedal balanced. As a result, not only the clutch suffers, but over time, also the release bearing and the crankshaft thrust bearing. If you don't like "clutch killers", always disengage the clutch at red lights and only engage 1st gear when the light turns yellow. And while driving - between gear changes - keep your foot close to the clutch pedal, not on it.

The article was taken in its entirety from the specified website FORDBOOK.RU