What component is responsible for disengaging engine power from the rest of the drivetrain?

The clutch is the component responsible for disengaging engine power from the rest of the drivetrain. When the clutch pedal is pressed, it separates the clutch disc from the flywheel, interrupting the connection between the engine and the transmission. This action allows the driver to change gears without stalling the engine, as it temporarily disconnects engine torque from the wheels. Once the gear change is complete, releasing the clutch pedal re-engages the power flow from the engine to the transmission, allowing the vehicle to move. This functionality is crucial for smooth operation of manual transmissions and highlights the importance of the clutch in the drivetrain.

In contrast, the transmission itself serves to transfer and modify the power from the engine to the wheels but does not physically disconnect the engine power. The differential plays a role in distributing power to the wheels and allowing for differences in wheel speed during turns. The driveshaft is a component that transmits power between the transmission and differential but does not control the engagement or disengagement of the engine's power.