Abstract: A clutch brake unit suitable for use in conjunction with a heavy duty clutch assembly for retarding the motion of the driven clutch shaft. The unit is actuated by the clutch release mechanism which causes the unit to be compressed between a movable member and a stationary member as the clutch is being released. A pair of discs, adapted to positively engage the shaft in sliding relationship therewith, are initially engaged by the members in friction driving contact and forced together against the biasing pressure of a wave washer mounted therebetween. The discs are independently mounted for compression within a relatively rigid housing. When the discs are compressed to a predetermined depth, the two members engage the housing thereby preventing further loading of the shaft.

Abstract: A torque limiting brake for a heavy duty automotive clutch. The brake, which is keyed to the driven shaft, is engaged by the release mechanism when the clutch is disengaged and moved into engagement with an adjacent stationary surface. This operates to stop the rotation of the driven shaft which tends to continue rotating due to inertia. To prevent damage to the brake when excessive braking pressure is applied, a yieldable connection is provided between the brake inner portion that is keyed to the driven shaft and its outer portion that engages the stationary surface whereby the former can have limited rotation relative to the latter if the braking pressure exceeds a predetermined amount.