Clutch operating apparatus

Apparatus for actuating an engageable and disengageable clutch having an axis of rotation and a useful life expectancy, particularly a friction clutch for operation between a prime mover and a transmission, comprising actuating means operable to actuate the clutch;

• a support;
• an intermediate part movable in the direction of said axis;
• means for operating said actuating means, said operating means being carried by said intermediate part and being rotatable about and movable in the direction of said axis and comprising at least two components including a driven part arranged to act upon said intermediate part in the direction of said axis and a driving part arranged to receive motion from an actuating arrangement;
• a first ramp assembly operative between said support and said driven part to effect movements of said actuating means in the direction of said axis;
• a second ramp assembly operative between said driven part and said intermediate part to compensate for axial movements, during the useful life of the clutch, of at least one portion of said actuating means which is engageable by said operating means;
• and coupling means operative between said intermediate part and said driving part to establish a non-rotary connection between said intermediate part and said driven part during actuation of the apparatus.