to clutch at straws: see straw. Device for quickly and easily connecting or disconnecting a pair of rotatable coaxial shafts. Clutches are usually placed between the driving motor and the input shaft to a machine and provide a convenient means for starting and stopping the machine and permitting the driving motor or engine to be started in an unloaded state (as in an automobile). Mechanical clutches provide either a positive (no-slip) or a friction-dependent drive; centrifugal clutches provide automatic engagement. An overrunning clutch transmits torque in one direction only and permits the driven shaft of a machine to freewheel (continue rotating after the driver stops); on bicycles, such clutches permit the rider to coast without moving the pedals
Purpose designed 'chain system' forging that allows a link of sling chain to be grabbed in order to shorten the overall length of the chain The forging ensures the grabbed link is correctly loaded and no link is trapped or damaged Submitted by Piers from London, UK
Device that allows the driver to engage or disengage the engine and transmission