Clutch Query

[DJ8226]

Me again.. Finally got the S out of the garage on Monday if only to clean it inside. She started up straight away after been in temporary hibernation for 7 weeks. When I went to engage first gear I had some issues engaging not only with first gear but any gear without switching off the engine first. I have been pressing the clutch a few times each week (as advised on S Series website) Once out on the drive I immediately checked the master cylinder and it was low (no fluid visible!!) topped it up and now need to bleed the system from the slave cylinder I guess. Not bled it yet but went on a test drive, as I could now engage each gear with the engine running. On the test drive I could change gear easily and gear changes are smooth but with a 'spirited' (quick) change it seems to snatch a little, is this down to the fact I may have air in the system or something more sinister, or is this normal. Difficult to explain in words but basically when changing gear it feels as though it isn't releasing quickly enough and unsettles the car a little.

Any advise to my query or similar experiences / remedies would be much appreciated.

[phillpot]

Would start with the leak, possible slave cylinder ? (lot of info on here about fitting cheaper Land Rover item)Bleed system and try it again, maybe all thats required ?

When I bought mine gear change was a bit "notchy", had visions of new clutch or even a gearbox overhaul but new pipe and slave and all's hunky dory !

[DJ8226]

Thanks Phillpot. Did have similar thoughts re landrover slave, Triumph ones also compatible I believe. I have seen these for sale and did think looks the same to me and is way cheaper. Going to sisters tomorrow so won't get chance to bleed system, but fluid in the system has made a massive difference so will stick with it and see how it is post bleed.

[mep12345]

DJ8226 said:

Thanks Phillpot. Did have similar thoughts re landrover slave, Triumph ones also compatible I believe. I have seen these for sale and did think looks the same to me and is way cheaper. Going to sisters tomorrow so won't get chance to bleed system, but fluid in the system has made a massive difference so will stick with it and see how it is post bleed.

If you have a leak you really need to identify that first and stop the fluid loss. Don't forget this is brake fluid not oil and can damage paint work etc where it falls and allow corrosion to set in or cause seals etc to fail prematurely.

None of the above of course covers the fact that if the fluid leaks out when driving you could find yourself stranded unable to engage gears.

Mark

[Wiz]

Check the condition of the push rod on the slave cylinder mine had worn quite badly needed a bit of welding.

Sort out the fluid first though. I got a re-con kit for the cylinder which helps if it hasn't corroded to badly.

[DJ8226]

Thanks for the advice guys also been on 'search' and read past issues along similar lines. I will check out whether I have a leak and take it from there. I want to know it is cured so as it doesn't let go or let me down in the future. Will let you know what I find TBC....