Clutch Fork Failure

This fork broke because it was subjected to high load during many clutch release cycles. It was used with an OE type Valeo pressure plate.

The root cause was lack of lubrication on the pivot ball. The pivot ball was dry with no lubricant. The pedal force required to release the clutch was about twice the normal amount.

With a new fork and a lubricated pivot ball the pedal force to release the clutch returned to normal. The correct pivot ball lubricant has a molybdenum disulfide high pressure anti-friction additive. The pivot ball should be freshly lubricated when a new clutch is installed. The tips that engage with the throw out bearing should also be lubricated.