Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) two clutch questions

[Sageair]

First question: I have had twice had to add fluid to my clutch master cylinder as it was about half way down in the reservoir. I can find no sign of leakage at the the master cylinder,on the line to the slave cylinder,on the slave cylinder or even on the clutch side of the slave cylinder after removal. Is it it likely that the slave cylinder is leaking slowly on the plunger side of the slave cylinder and leaking into the bell housing where I can't see it?

Second question: Is there any way to get more freeplay on the clutch? MIne engages right on top and barely has 1/4" of freeplay. That may be enough but it makes me very nervous. I tried making and installing a shorter plunger rod at the lsave cylinder and seemed to gain a little free play but it seems to have disappeared. The truck is a 2001 with six speed. Mileage is 30,000 and if I do say myself I am easier on a clutch than anybody else I know.

Thanks in advance

 

[Jim Fulmer]

Being an auto guy my knowledge is lacking here, but at the Kerrville rally Peter(Southbend clutch Peter) brought up this very topic. If I were you I would call him unless he doesn't post on this thread(I don't really know the vendor rules) I was quite impressed with him and his no non-sence approach, he would definately be my choice for a cluch guy.



Jim

 

[Whitmore]

Call Peter at Southbend, he is very sharp on clutches and he does have your best interest in mind

 

[South Bend Clutch]

Sageair,



This has been a problem with the six speeds, I am speaking of the high pedal engagement. I don't know why the factory set the clutches up like this. The way hydraulics work is first (there is know free play), the throw out bearing rides on the clutch fingers continuously. The engagement should start out closer to the floor and as the clutch wears, the the engagement and disengagement should move to the top of the pedal. Once it reaches the top of the pedal the clutch system has reached the end of it's life. When you changed the slave rod length all you did was relocate the starting point of the push rod in the slave cylinder. The problem that you are having IS in the hydraulics and is NOT a so called wearable part (like brakes or clutch) and should be warrantied by the dealer. Have them put a new hydraulic system on and it should make a difference for you.



Peter

 

[Sageair]

Peter



Thankyou for taking the time to answer my question. It would seem all the good press you receive from other T. D. R members is well deserved. When Dauntless is ready for a new clutch expect a call from me

Steve