Check a clutch system

Check a clutch system

Master cylinders

Where clutch and brake master cylinders are side-by-side, the clutch cylinder is the one on the right, looking from the front of the car.

The clutch master cylinder is usually found on the bulkhead next to the brake cylinder. Usually each cylinder is directly in front of its pedal, so the clutch cylinder is the one on the right as you look from the front of the car.

Brakes with servo assistance may have a different arrangement, but it should be clear which cylinder is which.

If the clutch fluid is low, look all over both master and slave cylinders and the pipe that connects them for signs of a leak. Pull back the lip of the dust cover on both cylinders. If there is hydraulic fluid inside the cover the piston seal is worn or damaged or the cylinder may be scored.

If you find a leak, remove the faulty part and overhaul or replace it.

If you can find no trace of a leak, fitting a complete service kit to both cylinders may cure the trouble.

If the fluid level is normal but the clutch 'drags' (will not disengage properly), and particularly if the pedal feels spongy, there is air in the system. Bleed the system