Abstract

A self adjusting release mechanism for disengaging a heavy duty friction clutch that is equipped with a clutch brake. As wear occurs on the facing of the clutch disc, portions of the clutch release mechanism are repositioned to compensate for wear without adversely affecting the operation of either the clutch or the clutch brake. The mechanism includes a sleeve that slidably supports a release bearing housing upon the drive shaft and a spider threaded onto the sleeve which is operatively connected to the pressure plate of the clutch via a plurality of release arms. Rearward movement of the bearing housing first disengages the clutch and then causes the housing to physically contact the clutch brake to retard the motion of the shaft. An adjusting mechanism senses wear on the clutch disc and automatically repositions the spider on the sleeve to compensate therefor without affecting the axial alignment between the release bearing housing and the clutch brake.