'78 Spider Clutch problem, m/c & s/c...

[AlfaNeely@domain.elided]

In a message dated 03/10/2002 12:11:08 PM Central Standard Time, 
owner-alfa-digest@domain.elided writes:


> Date: Sun, 10 Mar 2002 16:17:48 +0000
> From: JeffreyOlson@domain.elided
> Subject: '78 Spider Clutch problem, m/c & s/c...
> 
> Clutch has been increasingly difficult to disengage 
> completely, i.e. shifting into reverse or first gear 
> from a standstill.
> 
> The slave cylinder was leaking a bit so I replaced it 
> with the hose and YES, I did bleed it thoroughly with 
> the bleed screw at the top.
> 
> The problem did not go away as I hoped.  Clutch does not 
> slip at all but engages very close to the floor.  Still 
> tricky to get into first or reverse without a grind.
> 
> Should I try replacing the master cylinder first(no 
> leaks!) or just plan on a new clutch?
> 
> I have no idea how old the clutch is.  This difficulty 
> has gradually increased over the last week.  Prior to 
> that it worked great which is why I replaced the nasty 
> old slave cylinder!
> 
> Found a clutch kit from Linea Rossa for $129!
> 
> Thanks!
> 

       A clutch pedal that engages close to the floor indicates the disk is 
pretty thick.  A worn out thin disk will engage close to the top of the 
travel.  That is a bit generalized.
       Try bleeding the system once more.  Air bubbles can and do hang up on 
junctions in the line and with vibration from movement while driving will 
move up hill.
       It is often recommended to replace the clutch slave and master at the 
same time.  It may be time for a new master.  However, there is some 
adjustment possible in the linkage between the pedal and the master cylinder. 
 Lengthen this to see what impact it has.
       The clutch master might not be leaking out the end so that you can see 
the leakage.  It could just not be moving enough fluid or allowing fluid to 
seep by the longer you hold the clutch down.

Ciao,
Russ Neely
Oklahoma City

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