Olymat  (Saxomat) Automatic Clutch

The Olymat (Saxomat) clutch is a combination of  two single dry plate clutches:  one is operated by a centrifugal action and utilises a bronze friction material and another is a normal type with asbestos material and is operated by a release bearing, a clutch lever and a vacuum actuator. The illustration to the left shows the high-rpm situation vhere the centrifugal clutch is engaged. The illustration to the right shows the low-rpm situation where the centrifugal clutch is released.

The purpose of the clutch control system is to release the clutch whenever the gearlever  (1) is operated and  reengage the clutch  when a new gear has been selected and the acceleratorpedal is depressed. Vacuum is supplied from the intake manifold and stored in  a  reservoir.  When the gearlever is operated electric current is supplied to the solenoid in the controlvalve (2). Vacuum is transferred to the vacuum-diaphragm-actuator (3) which pulls the clutchlever and releases the clutch. The diaphragm-valve-system  in the right end of the control-valve (2)  ensures a controlled vacuum release and thereby a soft reengagement of the clutch.  The thin hose connection to the upper part of the carburettor  signals a  hard depressed accelerator  which makes  the clutch take-up faster.