Clutch release device of the self-centering type using a plastic deformation member

A clutch release device of the self-centering type comprising a clutch release bearing means for releasing a clutch, the bearing means including a stationary race, a race rotatable in contact with a clutch diaphragm and a support member integrally holding said stationary race, and bearing support means slidably mounted substantially coaxial with the rotational axis of the clutch for supporting and guiding said bearing means, said bearing means being formed for movement in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the fly-wheel of said clutch, the improvement comprising:

• a plastic deformation member of visco-elasticity disposed between the support member of said bearing means and said bearing support means;
• said plastic deformation member being deformed by the motion of said bearing means perpendicular to said rotational axis which results from a centripetal force acting on said bearing means during clutch release when there is an eccentricity between said rotational axis of said fly-wheel and the center line of said bearing means, thus permitting movement of said bearing means to its centered position, so that said plastic deformation member is plastically deformed into said centered position and holds said bearing means at that position.