Which technician's statement is correct regarding a self-adjusting cable operated clutch?

In the context of a self-adjusting cable-operated clutch, the statement regarding the pressure plate fingers constantly contacting the throwout bearing is correct for several reasons.

In this type of clutch system, the throwout bearing is designed to maintain light contact with the pressure plate fingers when the clutch is not engaged. This ensures that any slight variations in the clutch component wear can be compensated for without the need for manual adjustment. Keeping contact minimizes the risk of the bearing being overly worn due to significant gaps that could develop from wear, which can lead to clutch engagement issues.

It's also important to note that the self-adjusting mechanism typically operates through a series of cable or ratchet systems that engage as the clutch pedal is depressed. While the self-adjusting feature helps maintain the proper clutch engagement point, the adjustment does not occur during the pedal's returning action; rather, it is a response to the accumulation of wear over time, usually when the clutch pedal is fully released and engages the adjustment mechanism.

The first statement about automatic adjustment during the pedal's return is not accurate because the adjustment mechanism functions based on pedal travel and wear, not passively while the pedal is returning to its neutral position.