Please Vote - Air in lines or bad Slave Cyl.

Privatejoker86 · #1 (**permalink**) 08-23-2004, 06:27 PM

Here's the scoop. I have an 86 spider that the previous owner said had a rebuilt slave cylinder. I recently had the back end all jacked-up to put in new U-joints. Unfortunately now, I have to give the ole' clutch pedal a quick 1/4 pump every four or five starts to get her to to work right. Every once in a while, it need a full pump.

Is this the clutch slave cylinder shooting craps, or do I just need the flush the lines.

If so, can someone help me out on what fluid to use.

MrT · #2 (**permalink**) 08-23-2004, 08:27 PM

I'd vote for air in the lines. You changed the car's orientation, but probably not more than usual for relative G force from hard acceleration to hard deceleration. Just the duration was different. Make sure your slave cylinder has its bleed port at the top side (may have to rotate it -- wrenches, penetrating oil, hammer) before doing this. Archives have lots of recommendations. Castrol makes a DoT 3&4 grade brake fluid (LMA?) that I've seen recommended here and that I have used for years interchangeably with Valvoline's "Synpower" DoT 3&4 brake fluid. I'm sure there's a parts recommendation summary around here somewhere on alfabb.

That's my vote, anyway. Your clutch system will have the last word.

Michael

Privatejoker86 · #3 (**permalink**) 08-24-2004, 08:08 AM

Thanks, I appreciate it. I always try to check the archives before I post.

alfaloco · #4 (**permalink**) 08-24-2004, 08:29 AM

I have to agree with atom smasher. Master, wheel and slave cylinders can be rebuilt, I've done many of them, but it is possible to overhone them, and I've seen people reverse the seals also, which can give you fits. Also suspect the short hose that connects to the slave cylinder, they sometimes degrade on the ID and give erratic clutch action. They only run about $15 US from any Alfa parts source.
Suggest you go to the auto parts store and get a bleeder kit with a cup, a one-way (check) valve and rubber adapters for the bleed fittings. It really does facilitate bleeding, and yes, the slave cylinder MUST be turned with the bleeder at 12:00 position, or the air will not entirely escape.

Dave Jarman