Clutch Slave Cylinder Replacement
What is a clutch slave cylinder?
Hydraulic clutches use a clutch slave cylinder to operate the clutch when the clutch pedal is pressed. The slave cylinder also forces the clutch pedal to return to the raised position when released.
How does the clutch slave cylinder work?
The clutch pedal is a lever that increases the amount of force you apply. When the clutch is pressed, the master cylinder pushes fluid through the line, and into the slave cylinder on the other end. The slave cylinder pushes on the clutch fork, which disengages the clutch. When the clutch pedal is released, the clutch pushes the slave cylinder closed, forcing fluid back into the master cylinder, which lifts the clutch pedal and provides the force felt when pressing the clutch.
What are the symptoms related to a bad clutch slave cylinder?
If the clutch slave cylinder fails, the clutch pedal may float to the floor, and the vehicle may attempt forward motion with the vehicle stopped and in gear. The clutch will attempt to engage as the fluid escapes compression in the slave cylinder, normally through a leak. In most cases, the clutch pedal will have little to no effect on the clutch.
Can I drive with a clutch slave cylinder problem?
Driving a vehicle without a working clutch is only possible if the transmission is shifted improperly, and push-started at every stop. While this may save a few dollars on wrecker services, it can cost the replacement of the manual transmission. It is better to have the vehicle towed, than risk further damage.
How often do clutch slave cylinders need to be replaced?
The clutch hydraulic system, including the clutch master cylinder, clutch slave cylinder, and fluid lines, will need replacement sometime during the serviceable life of most vehicle's equipped with these systems. They wear out with use, but this typically takes well over 100,000 miles of use. For vehicle's used in city driving, the system will require much more maintenance over the life of the vehicle. Changing the clutch fluid according to the manufacturer specified intervals may help prevent premature failure of these components
