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Clutch Problem

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Old Oct 8, 2013 | 06:27 PM
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Default Clutch Problem

Hello......I have a 1986 Corvette coupe 4 spd......4&3 tranny. Parked the car yesterday with no problems. Got into it today and it won't go in any gear. With the car shut off and the key turned on I can get all the gears without the clutch. The clutch pedal is just hanging in the downward position. I thought when a clutch went there would be signs along the way that it was going and then let go at the top ????? I'd appreciate any input and possible costs. Thanks guys. Grant
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Rhode Island
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Old Oct 8, 2013 | 08:33 PM
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Check the clutch master cylinder and see if the fluid is low, or, perhaps gone. Slave, or the line maybe leaking.

That's the first place to look, I'm sure others will chime in with more steps.
Good luck.

Last edited by peyc2; Oct 8, 2013 at 11:30 PM.
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Old Oct 8, 2013 | 11:14 PM
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Your clutch is not going to be the problem. It will definitely be the clutch master cylinder being dry (leaking) or the slave cylinder leaking. You can find the slave cylinder by following the fluid line from the master cylinder to the side of the transmission. It's right there. Easy fix.
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Old Oct 9, 2013 | 09:15 AM
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Default Clutch

Just had to have the master and slave replaced on my 86 Convertible last month. My mechanic had a bear of a time bleeding it, and never got 100% of the air out of the line. I put out a thread on what I did afterwards to finally get the last of the air out of the line, and it's holding.

Not surprising it happened quickly. Mine acted normal and after about 3 stop lights I had no clutch.

Unfortunately there is not a braded line available for an 86 but I did note that you can get braided line and ends to fit the master and slave through a couple of vendors. I've thought about getting some if mine ever goes bad again. It was a stinker getting the last of the air out.

Watch the switch on the clutch pedal, mine either went out or was misadjusted after the master was replaced and the starter would not engage. I ended up having it bypassed for now so I can drive it this fall.


As far as cost, I think my mechanic got the parts from Napa. I think both cylinder were under $175-$200 total. I have yet to pay him so I don't know what the labor is on it yet (Keeps telling me he hasn't figured it out yet).

Last edited by hcbph; Oct 9, 2013 at 09:33 AM.
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