Re: Clutch questions S4 spider

["Dean W. Cains" <dwc@xxxxxx>]

Hi C.M.:

If the slave cylinder isn't leaking (see below, or just look for a puddle), 
that would suggest the master cylinder seals are getting too worn.  In 25 
years of Alfa ownership, I've learned to buy new hydraulics rather than 
attempt rebuilding.  Rebuilds do generally work, but just for a short 
while, as if the internal cylinder surfaces aren't mirror-smooth, the new 
seals will quickly become as worn and leaky as the ones you replaced.  It 
also seems to be statistically true that if you replace the master, the 
slave will need replacing soon, too.  So, just replace them both, change 
your fluid annually, and you'll be good for many years.  Don't forget the 
rubber hose, too, as it's just a few $ extra.

Having said all that, if it is the slave that's leaking, try replacing that 
alone, and that may fix things.  The slave is exposed to a much harsher 
environment, so they tend to not last as long.  Peel back the dust boot on 
the actuating rod, and if it's at all wet in there, replace it.  When 
installing the new cylinder into the sleeve on the bellhousing, first clean 
the bore with some fine sandpaper to remove any corrosion, and then coat it 
liberally with anti-seize compound.  This will pay dividends next time the 
cylinder needs to be removed.  And. position the new cylinder with the 
bleeder at 12 o'clock, or you'll have trouble getting all the bubble out 
during bleeding.

While you're under the Spider, it might be fun to change the gearbox oil, 
too.  It's probably ready for it, but even if not, almost no one puts in 
the proper lubricant.  The correct oil is Shell Spirax, which is a 90w gear 
oil without Hypoid additives.  Those additives are too slippery for proper 
synchro operation, and the correct oil makes a world of difference in how 
the gearbox operates and feels.  The Spirax can be tough to find (you might 
find a Shell wholesale distributor in the Yellow Pages), but a great 
alternative is Kendall Nitro 70w motor oil.  You'll need just over 2 
quarts, so buy three.  Always remove the filler plug before you do the 
drain plug, as if you drain the oil and then can't break loose the filler, 
. . . .  If the incorrect oil was previously used, it may take a few 
hundred miles for you to feel the improvement in shifting, but it will happen.

If you need any clarifications, don't be afraid to ask.  I almost forgot, 
good luck with the new Spider.

Regards,

Dean
Lutz, FL
'74 & '87 Spider Veloce's


At 12:24 PM 4/5/2003, you wrote:

> Date: Fri, 4 Apr 2003 06:39:37 -0700
> From: "C.M. Bereznoff" <cmbereznoff@domain.elided>
> Subject: Clutch questions S4 spider
>
> I am the proud new owner of a 93 S4 spider with 68K miles.  The car came
> from humid Florida and now lives in Colorado.  The problem is that when the
> car arrived, the clutch didn't always want to disengage.  The plates
> contacted as the pedal moved less than an inch from the floor.
> The fluid was very dirty so I changed it.  Now the pedal travel is
> appropriate but occasionally it will not shift into first gear without
> "pumping up" the clutch pedal.   The fluid looks dirty again.   Soooo,,,,
> whats up.   air in the lines?  a bad master or slave?  bad tranny fluid?
> clutch pedal pivot problem?    any suggestion appreciated.
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