Clutch Slave Cylinder Replacement Repair - Get an online auto repair estimate
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Sometimes refered to as Clutch Slave Cylinder, Slave Clutch Cylinder, Slave Cylinder, Clutch Slave
The clutch slave cylinder is directly attached to the manual transmission casing. When the clutch pedal is pressed, pressure generated by the clutch master cylinder is applied to the clutch slave cylinder. The clutch is then disengaged.
The clutch master cylinder generates the hydraulic pressure necessary to operate the clutch assembly. The clutch assembly has two key functions: to transmit power produced by the engine to the gearbox and to disrupt that power flow when the clutch pedal is depressed.
In order for the engine to operate efficiently, a range of gears is absolutely crucial. Power produced by the engine requires the clutch assembly-enabled interruption, which enables the vehicle to change gears and obtain neutral at a traffic light or stop sign.
If the clutch master cylinder or clutch slave cylinder fails, pressure will not be generated when the clutch pedal is pressed. When the driver tries to change gears, the pedal may stay on the floor, making it impossible to put the vehicle into gear.
To replace the clutch slave cylinder, first remove the hardware that secures it to the manual transmission casing. After accessing the clutch slave cylinder—which can be very difficult—the hydraulic lines that carry the fluid to the clutch slave cylinder and the clutch master cylinder should be removed. Then, similar to the clutch fluid replacement procedure, the clutch fluid is bled. Install the new clutch slave cylinder and replace the flexible hose. Fresh fluid should be added to the clutch fluid reservoir. Then, the clutch pedal is pressed and the pressure generated by the clutch master cylinder forces fresh fluid out to the clutch slave cylinder (which removes air from the system).
About this Repair: Clutch Slave Cylinder Replacement
Recommendations
If the clutch function is not normal after the clutch slave cylinder has been replaced, there is likely another problem with the clutch system.
Why this happens
The vehicle may become hard to shift if the clutch slave cylinder is failing and needs to be replaced.
Low levels of clutch fluid or a need to top off the fluid are often signs of a problem with the clutch slave cylinder.
The clutch fluid should be flushed until clean and clear during this replacement.
It is often economical to replace the clutch master cylinder at the same time the slave cylinder is replaced.