The pressure plate assembly consists of a diaphragm-spring type pressure plate, a release plate, and a retaining ring to hold them together. The friction clutch disc is splined to accept the mainshaft of the transmission and has integral cushion springs and dampening springs. The cushion springs-which are between the friction surfaces of the disc-help to reduce the shock when the clutch is engaged. The dampening springs- which are visible in the center hub-help to absorb the rotating power pulses of the engine. Unlike most other cars, the clutch's pressure plate assembly is bolted to the crankshaft with the flywheel bolted to the periphery of the pressure plate assembly. The ring gear, used to engage the starter, is integral with the flywheel and cannot be separated.