Low Clutch: Function
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Subaru Forester, 2012 Subaru Forester, 2011 Subaru Forester, and 2010 Subaru Forester. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The low clutch operates in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd speed gears.
This clutch engages when hydraulic pressure from the control valve is applied to the low clutch piston, transmitting power through the rear planetary carrier to the reduction drive shaft.
A cover is placed inside the piston, and the space between the piston and the cover is filled with ATF. When the low clutch is not in engagement, the centrifugal force generated in the ATF inside the cover cancels out the centrifugal force generated in the ATF remaining behind the low clutch piston, thus preventing incomplete disengagement of the clutch.