Clutch Failure
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New User
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 13
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From: Somewhere in Oregon
Clutch Failure
Hello folks...
So, first, let me preface this post by explaining that I am not terribly knowledgeable when it comes to hydraulic clutch systems. My first car had a cable controlled clutch, my power wagon had a mechanical linkage controlled clutch. The only vehicles I've had that have had hydraulic Clutch systems never gave me any trouble.
When I bought my 1989 F250 a little over a year ago the clutch had quite a bit of travel before engaging, but still worked okay. Progressively over the last year, it has gotten worse until last weekend, it failed altogether. All the way to the floor and clutch won't engage.
I've already figured that the culprit is likely either the Master Cylinder, the Slave Cylinder or possibly just needing to be bled. Is there a reliable way to test what the problem is. I really don't want to get one part only to find out that the problem was with the other.
Thanks,
~Steven
So, first, let me preface this post by explaining that I am not terribly knowledgeable when it comes to hydraulic clutch systems. My first car had a cable controlled clutch, my power wagon had a mechanical linkage controlled clutch. The only vehicles I've had that have had hydraulic Clutch systems never gave me any trouble.
When I bought my 1989 F250 a little over a year ago the clutch had quite a bit of travel before engaging, but still worked okay. Progressively over the last year, it has gotten worse until last weekend, it failed altogether. All the way to the floor and clutch won't engage.
I've already figured that the culprit is likely either the Master Cylinder, the Slave Cylinder or possibly just needing to be bled. Is there a reliable way to test what the problem is. I really don't want to get one part only to find out that the problem was with the other.
Thanks,
~Steven
pedant
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 23,576
Likes: 40
From: EXTREME southwest CT
What engine is in your truck? (It does matter)
Have you looked up above the gas pedal to see if the plastic retaining clip is still attached to the master cylinder pushrod?
Another issue with these trucks is that the firewall can crack where the master cylinder is mounted.
The best way to check this is to open the hood and look at the master while someone else pushes on the clutch pedal.
Have you looked up above the gas pedal to see if the plastic retaining clip is still attached to the master cylinder pushrod?
Another issue with these trucks is that the firewall can crack where the master cylinder is mounted.
The best way to check this is to open the hood and look at the master while someone else pushes on the clutch pedal.
Junior User
Joined: Jan 2017
Posts: 88
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From: In a state of confusion
Bleed it and see what you get. Beware that the master cylinder doesn't hold that much fluid, so if you pump it dry, you get to start all over... I've replaced two slaves over the years on my 94 f250. Never had a problem with the master.
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New User
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 13
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From: Somewhere in Oregon
What engine is in your truck? (It does matter)
Have you looked up above the gas pedal to see if the plastic retaining clip is still attached to the master cylinder pushrod?
Another issue with these trucks is that the firewall can crack where the master cylinder is mounted.
The best way to check this is to open the hood and look at the master while someone else pushes on the clutch pedal.
Have you looked up above the gas pedal to see if the plastic retaining clip is still attached to the master cylinder pushrod?
Another issue with these trucks is that the firewall can crack where the master cylinder is mounted.
The best way to check this is to open the hood and look at the master while someone else pushes on the clutch pedal.
5.0 Windsor, zF 42(?) transmission and 4WD.
pedant
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 23,576
Likes: 40
From: EXTREME southwest CT
(These things are a real pita)
Have a look at where the pedal connects to the master cylinder and whether the master cylinder itself is moving
Super Moderator
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 34,503
Likes: 2,820
'80s trucks have a problem with rusting and cracking firewalls where the master is attached. As per the prior post, have someone look at the master while you work the pedal. Flexing etc could be part of your problem.
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