SLK320 Manual Clutch

[Thincat]

Hi. I've got an SLK320 manual (2001) and the other day a broken bracket and a 6" spring dropped into the footwell. I'm told that it's a device to reduce the pressure on the clutch and isn't critical - the clutch will just be a bit heavier. Is this true? I'm inclined to leave it off if I can because the clutch is nicer without it. Thanks.

 

[Druk]

I've got a spare pedalbox from a manual W124 which has a similar assist spring. Looking at it I think it has a dual function, one of which is to pull the pedal back from the 'zero' position and thereby relieving the clutch thrust bearing of the weight of the pedal. As you push down on the pedal the spring pressure goes overcenter and then assists with the 'push'.
I would suggest that leaving it off short-term would do no harm but to get it replaced when convenient. You may just burn out the clutch thrust bearing otherwise.

 

[Thincat]

Thanks for the reply. That's a pity, I was hoping to leave it off as the gearchange is better without it.