How does the clutch engage?

[eNforcer]

I was turning the engine over to try and get the flywheel moving to make sure everything was operational but the clutch was not engaging to move the flywheel (the engine was not running, i was just turning it over).

When and how does the clutch know when to engage?

 

[SMaxxin]

The clutch will not engaged when the engine is not running. The clutch shoes are held with springs, the engine has to turn enough rpm's to make the springs open which allows the shoes to press against the clutch bell.

 

[jetmechG550]

Centifugal force, it's physics. You can tune with lighter weight shoes and different rate springs for early or late engagement. By hand you'll never turn the engine fast enough to engage the clutch.