Release levers move the pressure ring ________.

The correct answer is that release levers move the pressure ring away from the clutch disc. This movement is critical in the operation of a manual transmission system, particularly when engaging or disengaging the clutch. When the driver presses the clutch pedal, the release levers pivot and push the pressure ring, which in turn pulls the diaphragm spring away from the clutch disc. This action reduces the pressure holding the clutch disc against the flywheel, allowing the driver to change gears smoothly without grinding or damaging the transmission components.

Understanding this mechanical interaction is essential for grasping how a manual transmission functions. For instance, if the release levers did not move the pressure ring away from the clutch disc, the clutch would remain engaged, making it impossible to shift gears. Thus, the correct motion of the release levers is vital for the effective operation of the clutch mechanism in manual transmissions.