ZF6 Slave bleeder screw problems

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Mar 1, 2010 | 01:52 AM

MrVette90l98mt

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From: Newark ca

ZF6 Slave bleeder screw problems

I just got my new clutch master and slave cylinders for my 90 L98 and started working on it this morning. The first problem was cracking the line off the slave (original slave rusted to the line with 98,000mi & probably original fluid). Solved that issue and to my surprize the replacement slave (cast iron) will not fit with the bleeder screw in place.

No,

the floor board is not an option. I don't wan't to modify the original bleeder screw untill I know the slave works (warranty)-can't do that until finished-vicious circle.

I've been to NAPA, Allied, Kragen. All of wich do not have a bleeder screw that is a 12mm x 1 pitch at all. All I need is a quarter inch shorter and im a happy camper. I can make my own bleeder screw out of a 12mm bolt on a lathe, but damn it why can't anything fit out of the box

Has anyone else run into this problem with a cast iron replacement slave?
Any tips/tricks?

I don't have acces to a lathe until tuesday, anybody know were to get a 12mm bleeder screw?

Thanks, Ryan

Mar 1, 2010 | 02:23 AM

turbopezz

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In 91 GM changed up the slave cylinder.You probally have a newer style model.I read the 1st design is not commonly sitting around any parts stores.

Mar 1, 2010 | 07:12 AM

milsurpman

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From: Highland Village texas

Yes, I put a cast slave on my 89'. I had to also shorten the bleeder screw which is normal for this style of slave (89-90). If you look at your oem slave you will see the bleeder screw is broken off flush by the factory after bleeding. If I were you I would just shorten it and be done with it. I doubt the auto parts would pay enough attention to the slave if you returned it to notice the bleeder is shortened.

Mar 1, 2010 | 10:15 PM

MrVette90l98mt

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From: Newark ca

*UPDATE* I today I was in the shop today and guess what, another 90 zf6 showed up for the same reason (bad slave). As my luck would have it my Centric cast iron slave fits his car with no mods. I was in shock and awe.
This brings me to my next idea-Any chance my c-beam is tweaked. How can I tell? My engine mounts look alright and the car never shook bad or anything. I don't think the car was ever in an accident (CARFAX). Anyone know were to get a 12x1.0 metric bolt because I will make a bleeder screw out of one. I am worried that by modifing the bleeder might not be enough clearance. I have a total clearance of 1/2 inch from base of bleeder port to the floor board.

PLEASE HELP, THANKS

Mar 2, 2010 | 10:52 PM

SJW

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Joined: May 2005

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From: Central Maryland

Try www.mcmaster.com.

Live well,

SJW

Mar 3, 2010 | 01:48 AM

milsurpman

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From: Highland Village texas

Quote:

Originally Posted by MrVette90l98mt

One more time. If the stamped steel factory slave doesnt fit with a bleeder your cast will not either. cut the screw down and go on. The factory removed it on the stamped for a reason. The other car is a oddball. I cut my screw down to its wrench flats to fit comfortable. Bleeding is fine but messy. Our slaves actually bleed normally unlike 91 and later cars which you have to bleed bottom to top. Most use a mity vac to bleed later systems. The factory redesigned the bleeder position as it cost man hours to shear off the bleeder after bleeding in factory installations. If this is a big problem for you then find a 91 and later master to slave hose assy and a slave and deal with bleeding the late style. Return your early slave. Im sure someone would appreciate it as early slaves are hard to find. No more clearance problems with the new style but it is a pain to bleed.

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