What is the role of the pressure plate in a clutch system?

The role of the pressure plate in a clutch system is primarily to engage and disengage the engine’s power from the transmission through friction. The pressure plate exerts pressure on the clutch disc, which engages the disc to the flywheel when the clutch pedal is released, allowing the engine's power to be transmitted to the transmission.

While it is true that the pressure plate does maintain contact with the throwout bearing during certain phases of operation, its main function is not merely to provide this contact. The pressure plate's primary function is critical in ensuring that the clutch can effectively engage and disengage as required. By maintaining the right amount of pressure on the clutch disc, it ensures smooth operation when the clutch is engaged and allows for proper disconnection when the clutch is disengaged. This ability to manage the application of force is vital for the proper functioning of the vehicle's manual transmission system.