Chrysler 1998 Voyager, Service Manual, Page: 213 / 1938

(3) Remove the fork from the bearing thrust plate
(Fig. 22).
(4) Examine the condition of the bearing. It is pre-
lubricated and sealed and should not be immersed in
oil or solvent.
(5) The bearing should turn smoothly when held in
the hand under a light thrust load. A light drag
caused by the lubricant fill is normal. If the bearing
is noisy, rough, or dry, replace the complete bearing
assembly with a new bearing.
(6) The bearing has a plastic sleeve pre-lubricated
at assembly. Wipe out the old grease. Refill the sleeve
cavities and coat the inner surface with multipurpose
grease. If the liner is cracked or worn, replace the
bearing assembly.
(7) Check the condition of the spring clips. If the
clips are broken or distorted, replace the bearing
assembly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Before assembling the fork, lubricate the
rounded thrust pads and the spring clip cavities with
multipurpose grease.
(2) Assemble the fork to the bearing by sliding the
thrust pads under the spring clips. Be careful to
avoid distorting the spring clips. These clips prevent
the bearing thrust plate from rotating with the bear-
ing.
(3) Slide the bearing and fork assembly onto the
input shaft bearing retainer.
(4) Position the release shaft bushings in the hous-
ing and install the release shaft. A small amount of
bearing grease between the release shaft bushing
and the shaft is beneficial but not required. Install
the retainer clip in the shaft groove near the large
bushing.
(5) Install the release lever and retaining clip on
the outer end of the release shaft.
CLEANING AND INSPECTION
CLUTCH CONTAMINATION
Fluid contamination is a frequent cause of clutch
malfunctions. Oil, grease, water, or other fluids on
the clutch contact surfaces will cause faulty opera-
tion.
During inspection, note if any components are con-
taminated. Look for evidence of oil, grease, or water/
road splash on clutch components.
OIL CONTAMINATION
Oil contamination indicates a leak at the rear main
seal and/or transaxle input shaft. Oil leaks produce a
residue of oil on the transaxle housing interior, clutch
cover and flywheel. Heat buildup caused by slippage
can bake the oil residue onto the components. This
glaze-like residue ranges in color from amber to
black.
GREASE CONTAMINATION
Grease contamination is usually a product of over-
lubrication. During clutch service, apply only a small
amount of grease to the input shaft splines. Excess
grease may be thrown off during operation, contami-
nating the disc.
ROAD SPLASH/WATER CONTAMINATION
Road splash contamination is usually caused by
driving the vehicle through deep water puddles.
Water can be forced into the clutch housing, causing
clutch components to become contaminated. Facing of
disc will absorb moisture and bond to the flywheel
and/or, pressure plate, if vehicle is allowed to stand
for some time before use. If this condition occurs,
replacement of clutch assembly may be required.
Drive the vehicle until normal clutch operating tem-
perature has been obtained. This will dry off disc
assembly, pressure plate, and flywheel.
CLEANING PRECAUTIONS
Condensation from steam vapors tend to accumu-
late on the internal clutch mechanism when the vehi-
cle is steam cleaned. Facing of disc will absorb
moisture and will bond to flywheel and/or pressure
plate, if vehicle is allowed to stand for some time
before use. If this condition occurs, it may require
replacement of clutch assembly. After cleaning, drive
the vehicle to its normal clutch operating tempera-
ture. This will dry off disc assembly, pressure plate,
and flywheel.
Fig. 22 Clutch Release Fork
NS/GS
CLUTCH 6 - 15
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)