By Geo on Thursday, December 19, 2002 - 11:03 am:

Does anyone have a link to a page that explains how the 'prilia slipper clutch operates?
Thanks!  

By Rca on Friday, December 20, 2002 - 01:55 am:

No web-site, but perhaps the following helps. Basically there is a diaphragm on the outside of the clutch connected to the clutch release rod (the rod that when you squeeze the clutch lever, acts against the clutch springs to press the clutch plates apart). The diaphragm has a vacuum chamber on one side (the outside) which is connected to the intake manifold on the engine side of the throttle plate(s) (I haven't checked if it is connected to both manifolds or just one). When you close the throttle it creates a vacuum on the engine side of the throttle plates which is transferred to the vacuum chamber causing the diaphragm to move outwards, which then pulls on the clutch release rod, reducing the pressure on the clutch plates and allowing them to slip.  

By Geo on Friday, December 20, 2002 - 06:26 am:

Thanks, that's clear enough!  

By Falcorob on Friday, December 20, 2002 - 07:20 am:

Yeah I get that

Isn't that what mechanics were invented for?

Rob 

By Rca on Friday, December 20, 2002 - 08:41 am:

One other nice feature is that when you close the throttle and use the clutch, the slipper clutch is acting like a power assist for the clutch lever.  

By Geo on Friday, December 20, 2002 - 11:45 am:

It would be better if we didn't need a "power assist" in the first place!
I hate getting caught in heavy traffic with this clutch.  

By Salkhan on Tuesday, December 24, 2002 - 12:41 pm:

Here ya go.... Might have to blow it up a little....

http://www.mindspring.com/~apriliasal/Others/Clutch.jpg