clutch problems any suggestions

[jned2]

Two weeks ago my S3 developed a clutch problem. It became very difficult to engage gears when stationary and to change gear when driving. Under the bonnet I found the master cylinder was virtually empty, I couldn't find any signs of fluid in the drivers foot well or around the master cylinder so looked underneath the car to find the slave cylinder leaking. I've replaced the slave cylinder and bled the system but I've still got the problem. Everything looks to be working OK underneath the car, the pushrod is correctly located in the lever and moves forward when the clutch is depressed. I think the clutch is OK as when it's being driven the clutch doesn't slip, there's no clutch judder and the bite is still very low down. Any suggestions ?

[Griffinr]

Master cylinder seals could be tired and letting air in on the return stroke or it could be a failed return spring in the master cylinder. They can also be a bit tricky to bleed on occasions.
Rob.

[griff 200]

Still air in system. Hold the clutch down for some time or jam down with wood etc. this may allow small air bubbles to rise up to the master cly should do it. If not. Try using a new oil can filled with brake fluid fitted with a length of small bore pipe and bleed up the system from the bottom. Good way to bleed brakes as well Good luck richard.

[greymrj]

Yes, it is a known problem, they can be tricky to bleed properly. I had exactly the same problem. If you have a friend available to help, get them to press the clutch pedal and check how far the slave moves, it may well not be moving far enough. See suggestins above. In addition,you may find that the slave cylinder piston isnt returning fully, in which case it wont bleed properly. Use a bit of wood in the bellhousing or whatever to push it right back, bleed it first with the cylinder piston held back. When that is clear bleed it again with the piston free to move.
One other issue, is the bleed nipple on the slave cylinder above or below the pipe! Dependent on who piped it, it may be possible to have it the wong way up. If the bleed nipple is below the pipe it probably wont work.

[jned2]

Thanks for the suggestions; have a day off on Thursday will have another go at bleeding the system hopefully it will do the trick.

[jned2]

At last clutch problem sorted. It did need a new slave cylinder and 2 attempts at bleeding the system but what I missed the first time round was that the end of the push rod was worn and had 2 fairly deep groves in it; stupid really as there are a couple of posts and pictures on here which mention checking the state of the pushrod. Anyway all sorted, once again thanks for the suggestions.