Bleeding the Clutch
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 945
Likes: 32
From: WV
Bleeding the Clutch
My C4 is a 1993, LT1, 6 spd. My original understanding (possibly mistaken) was that the exhaust had to be at least partially dropped to access the bleeder for flushing the clutch fluid. For that reason, I have been using the popular "Ranger method" from topside.
But as I recently changed the engine oil, I noticed that the bleeder for the clutch is directly accessible (possibly because I have an aftermarket exhaust). I have not yet touched it, as it looks rusty, so I have left this to be addressed as a winter project,
The bleeder looks the same as the brake bleeder screw, making me wonder if a speed bleeder will work, allowing me to flush the clutch fluid in the same manner as the brakes.
Confirmation, clarification, referral to other applicable links will be greatly appreciated.
But as I recently changed the engine oil, I noticed that the bleeder for the clutch is directly accessible (possibly because I have an aftermarket exhaust). I have not yet touched it, as it looks rusty, so I have left this to be addressed as a winter project,
The bleeder looks the same as the brake bleeder screw, making me wonder if a speed bleeder will work, allowing me to flush the clutch fluid in the same manner as the brakes.
Confirmation, clarification, referral to other applicable links will be greatly appreciated.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,467
Likes: 43
From: Auburn MA
The bleeder valve is and works just like the bleeder valve on the brakes... what are you looking to do though bleed it or swap fluid for clean fluid. It really isn't that difficult to drop the exhaust once the car is in the air either.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 2,605
Likes: 202
From: Trinity FL
You bleed it just as you would the brakes, however, you should unbolt the slave from the bell housing and turn it 180 degrees so the bleeder screw is facing upwards. This ensures all the air is evacuated from the slave cylinder when you are bleeding it. Do this a few times, then reinstall the slave and get inside the car and start pumping the clutch pedal until it gets nice and firm.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 21,543
Likes: 3,216
From: Park City Utah
Speed bleeder should work.
However if you're already "bled" (no air in system) and you just want to change the fluid, simply opening the bleeder and letting it drain, as you keep the reservoir topped (so it doesn't "suck air") should do the job in a matter of seconds. Close bleed when you get clean fluid, set reservoir level, and you're done.
However if you're already "bled" (no air in system) and you just want to change the fluid, simply opening the bleeder and letting it drain, as you keep the reservoir topped (so it doesn't "suck air") should do the job in a matter of seconds. Close bleed when you get clean fluid, set reservoir level, and you're done.
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 34,873
Likes: 487
From: Lacey WA RVN 68-69
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Speed Bleeders come in different sizes. Some bleeders appear to be very close in dimensions (diameter and thread pitch) and it could be that it may not work. You don't want to screw up the threads of either piece. You can try installing it but don't use a wrench initially; if the bleeder is the right size, you should be able to get at least a couple turns before hitting the sealant on the bleeder.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 945
Likes: 32
From: WV
Speed Bleeders come in different sizes. Some bleeders appear to be very close in dimensions (diameter and thread pitch) and it could be that it may not work. You don't want to screw up the threads of either piece. You can try installing it but don't use a wrench initially; if the bleeder is the right size, you should be able to get at least a couple turns before hitting the sealant on the bleeder.
My extra brake caliper speed bleeder is specifically for this car. So, does anyone know if the brake bleeder valve and the clutch bleeder valve are the same size and thread?
Last edited by emptnest; Oct 27, 2014 at 02:49 PM.
