1. Chapter 18
The Clutch System

2. Checking and Adjusting a Mechanical Clutch
18-1
Following the specified procedure, inspect the clutch linkage parts for damaged, worn, bent, or missing components. Look for signs of binding, looseness, and excessive wear. Start with the clutch pedal assembly and inspect all components under the dash. Operate the clutch pedal while you are inspecting the components to observe looseness or binding.

3. Checking and Adjusting a Mechanical Clutch
18-1
Check the clutch linkage components under the hood for the same signs of wear or damage as the components under the dash.

4. Checking and Adjusting a Mechanical Clutch
18-1
Measure the clutch pedal height. Compare your reading to the specifications and determine any necessary actions to correct any fault.

5. Checking and Adjusting a Mechanical Clutch
18-1
Measure the clutch pedal free-play. Perform any adjustments as necessary, following the manufacturer’s procedure.

6. Checking and Adjusting a Hydraulic Clutch
18-2
Inspect the clutch master cylinder for correct fluid level and test the quality of the fluid. Inspect all line connections to the master cylinder.

7. Checking and Adjusting a Hydraulic Clutch
18-2
Check that all hydraulic lines are not kinked or leaking at their connections. This will require that the system be repaired and bled of any air. Check all rubber hoses for dry rot, bulges, or leaks. Make sure all hydraulic components are secure in their mountings.

8. Checking and Adjusting a Hydraulic Clutch
18-2
Check the boot on the slave cylinder for seepage, which may indicate a leaking slave cylinder piston seal.

9. Checking and Adjusting a Hydraulic Clutch
18-2
Check clutch pedal height. Measure clutch pedal free-play using a tape measure. Compare your readings to the specifications and determine any necessary actions to correct any fault.

10. Bleeding/Flushing Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Gravity Method
18-3
If the fluid needs to be flushed, use a suction gun or old anti-freeze tester to suck the fluid out of the clutch master cylinder reservoir. Fill it with the specified fluid.

11. Bleeding/Flushing Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Gravity Method
18-3
Open the bleeder screw on the slave cylinder. Allow air and fluid to drain from the system into a container.

12. Bleeding/Flushing Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Gravity Method
18-3
Keep the master cylinder filled. Once all air and old fluid are removed, close the bleeder screw and operate the clutch pedal to check for normal operation. After bleeding the clutch hydraulic system, fill the master cylinder to the correct level with the specified type of brake fluid.

13. Bleeding/Flushing Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Manual Method
18-4
Remove all old fluid from the reservoir. Fill it with the specified fluid. Have an assistant depress the clutch pedal slowly.

14. Bleeding/Flushing Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Manual Method
18-4
Open the bleeder valve on the slave cylinder and let fluid run out into a container. When all of the fluid stops flowing, close the bleeder valve and slowly release the pedal. Repeat this process until all air and old fluid are removed from the system. After bleeding the clutch hydraulic system, check for correct pedal feel, and fill the master cylinder to the correct level with the specified type of brake fluid.

15. Bleeding/Flushing Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Manual Method
18-4
Keep the master cylinder filled. Once all air and old fluid are removed, close the bleeder screw and operate the clutch pedal to check for normal operation. After bleeding the clutch hydraulic system, fill the master cylinder to the correct level with the specified type of brake fluid.

16. Bleeding Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Pressure Method
18-5
Hook up the pressure or vacuum bleeding tool to the vehicle with the correct adapters.

17. Bleeding Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Pressure Method
18-5
Apply pressure or vacuum to the system.

18. Bleeding Hydraulic Clutch System Using the Pressure Method
18-5
Open the bleeder screw and allow the fluid and air to be purged from the system. Repeat this process as necessary. After bleeding, check for correct pedal feel, and fill the clutch master cylinder to the correct level with the specified type of brake fluid.