Clutch Slave Cylinder (What is it? How They Work & Symptoms) (2024)

A clutch slave cylinder is a device used in the hydraulic clutch system, this item is mounted in the transmission, either on the outside, or in the inside.

If it is mounted on the outside, it is usually attached to the manual transmission by two bolts, the clutch slave cylinder has a rod that extends out every time hydraulic pressure is applied to it by the clutch master cylinder ( you operate this part every time you push on the clutch pedal).

The rod that extends out makes contact with the clutch fork, in this design the clutch fork is the one who activates the clutch pressure plate.

In an internal clutch slave cylinder design, the clutch slave cylinder and clutch release bearing are one unit, this unit slides in the input shaft of the manual transmission and is held by two or three bolts that attach the unit to the front of the transmission (inside the bell-housing). By being a single unit, the need of a clutch fork is eliminated.

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What are the clutch slave cylinder side effects?

Generally when you have an awful clutch slave cylinder you know it immediately, in light of the fact that since it is a water powered part, once a seal inside the slave cylinder gets terrible, it will begin releasing fluid, in the meantime, on the grounds that the seal is not fixing legitimately, it will permit air inside the framework, bringing about your clutch pedal to feel delicate and elastic.

At the point when a clutch pedal feels that way, it is a sign of air in the framework, and when this happens, it makes it difficult to work the clutch appropriately in light of the fact that it connects with even with your foot the distance to the floor, now and again you may not have the capacity to put your auto or truck in apparatus because of this issue.

NOTE: An awful clutch master cylinder will have comparable manifestations, ensure that you take a gander at every one of these things to figure out which one is the issue (the malfunctioning clutch slave cylinder is the one releasing fluid).

Every manual transmission come fitted with a clutch, which is a plate secured in a grating safe material. This plate contacts the metal flywheel on the back of the motor and exchanges the revolution vitality from the motor to the transmission.

In right on time years, a link drew in and separated the clutch and required intermittent modification. A water powered segment, known as the slave cylinder, wipes out the requirement for alteration by utilizing fluid to connect with and separate the clutch.

All together for the motor to work productively, a scope of apparatuses is totally vital. Power delivered by the motor requires the clutch get together empowered interference, which empowers the vehicle to change outfits and get unbiased at an activity light or stop sign.

Important Clutch Slave Cylinder Facts

Subsequent to their presentation in light truck applications in the late 1980’s, clutch discharge frameworks containing a concentric slave cylinder (CSC) have turned into the pressure driven arrangement of decision in local applications.

In addition to the fact that they are solid and simple to investigate, they additionally dispense with the requirement for different parts, for example, the discharge fork, plume, and rotate linkage.

In numerous cases, the CSC is outfitted with a replaceable rakish contact discharge bearing. Since the push face surface of this bearing keeps up consistent contact with the weight plate stomach spring, the bearing might fall flat before the rest of the CSC.

While installing another clutch unit in a CSC prepared application, it’s imperative to dependably review the water driven framework. If it is working legitimately, basically supplant the old discharge bearing with another discharge bearing (contained in the clutch unit), alongside alternate parts found in the pack.

In any case, if the clutch won’t discharge and/or the pressure driven framework is spilling or won’t drain legitimately, another CSC ought to be introduced, alongside another master cylinder and clutch unit. In this occasion, the specialist is currently compelled to buy two discharge bearings, one that is contained in the unit and one that is as of now connected to the new CSC.

With a specific end goal to wipe out the copy expense of sourcing two discharge bearings, AMS offers the business’ first and most extensive lineup of no-bearing (NB) alternatives. A large portion of these NB choices are among our most prevalent slave cylinders. Besides, offer a significant value decrease versus the same slave cylinder with a discharge bearing.

Despite the fact that the vehicle proprietor at last pays the cost for pointless parts, a hefty portion of the additional discharge bearings wind up being come back to the middleman or WD. Since no paper trail exists for the offer of the additional bearing, the wholesaler might wind up issuing a swelled credit for the bearing.

Outer Slave Cylinder

As the name suggests, outer slave cylinders are ordinarily mounted on the outside of the transmission chime lodging. They comprise of few moving parts other than a cylinder, inner spring, and push-rod.

An elastic boot is generally used to seal contaminants far from the moving parts. The discharge bearing utilized as a part of this framework dependably keeps up preloaded contact with the stomach spring.This careful length is extremely basic in the general function of the water powered framework.

How the Clutch Hydraulic System Works

Clutch pedal

While not really a part of the water powered framework, the pedal join with and incites the clutch master cylinder. The pedal get together is situated under the dash. If you were to slither under the guiding section with your back on the floor and gaze upward.

You can see the clutch pedal spring in addition to the clutch modification bar. This segment experiences a boot in the firewall (which can likewise be seen) and interfaces with the master cylinder. Only a state of intrigued on most autos, this pole can be turned left or right to change the purpose of clutch engagement over the floor, closer or more remote.

Clutch Master Cylinder

The master cylinder is rushed to firewall in the back of the motor inlet. You can undoubtedly find it as it is associated by a short hose to the clutch fluid repository. While I don’t have a photo of a real master cylinder, it is as its name recommends a straightforward cylinder with a steel line leaving the end.

The inner cylinder is associated with the clutch conformity bar. Along these lines as the clutch pedal is squeezed, the fluid in the master cylinder is constrained out of the cylinder into the steel clutch fluid line that races to the slave cylinder.

Clutch Slave Cylinder

The slave cylinder is darted to the genuine transmission itself. One end of the cylinder is interested in the clutch fluid line. On the other side a steel pole unites the cylinder of the cylinder to the clutch fork on the chime lodging of the tranny. A portrayal of the cylinder is show underneath.

Cylinder and Related Compenents

At the point when clutch fluid is compelled to leave the master cylinder from despondency of the clutch pedal, it moves through the steel line and into the slave cylinder. The power of the moving fluid incites the cylinder in the slave cylinder and strengths the slave pole outwards against the clutch fork.

This covers the significant components of the clutch pressure driven framework, however certain vehicles will have additional fluid stores and/or restrictors in the middle of the two cylinders to smooth out clutch engagement and separation.

These are not fundamental parts and are not talked about. Presently, how about we take a speedy recap of how the water driven framework functions. Congratulations, now you fully understand how the clutch slave cylinder works.

Last Updated on: January 11, 2023

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Clutch Slave Cylinder (What is it? How They Work & Symptoms) (2024)

FAQs

Clutch Slave Cylinder (What is it? How They Work & Symptoms)? ›

What is a Clutch Slave Cylinder? A clutch slave cylinder, or CSC, is an integral part of the way a manual transmission system works. Without it, a driver would not be able to switch gears. It works by moving pressure plates to disengage the clutch from the engine of your car when you push in the clutch pedal.

How do you know if your clutch slave cylinder is bad? ›

Bad clutch slave cylinder symptoms
  • Very heavy or light clutch pedal.
  • Ineffective clutch pedal.
  • Oil dripping from under the car.
  • Hydraulic oil level low (often shared with brake fluid)
  • The clutch pedal sticking at bottom of the travel.
Nov 14, 2022

What does a failing slave cylinder feel like? ›

A change in the clutch pedal is one of the best faulty clutch slave symptoms. If the pedal feels spongy, it may be an indication of a slave cylinder problem. The pedal may also stick to the floor when pressed, not allowing the clutch to properly disengage.

What are common problems with clutch slave cylinder? ›

The most common issue for clutch master and slave cylinders is contamination of the hydraulic fluid or even the wrong type of hydraulic fluid being used. The smallest drop of contaminant, such as engine oil, gearbox oil, washer fluid or antifreeze can cause the rubber seals within the cylinder to swell up overtime.

How do you diagnose a clutch master cylinder vs slave cylinder? ›

If it is found under the clutch area of the engine/transmission, it's the slave cylinder that has worn and failed. Clutch master cylinder failures tend to leak clutch fluid onto the carper above the driver foot pedal area. There will be a bit of an acrid odor in the vehicle if this occurs.

What makes a slave cylinder go out? ›

The clutch slave cylinder can go bad over time after being used every time you depress the clutch. As the slave cylinder goes bad, the vehicle will not be able to properly shift gears, and there will be several other issues as well.

What causes a slave cylinder to go out? ›

The underlying cause may be a worn or leaky piston seal in the master or slave cylinder, loss of hydraulic fluid from the system (leaks) or air in the system. Like brake fluid, hydraulic fluid is incompressible.

Can a clutch slave cylinder fail without leaking? ›

Even if there is no external leak, slave cylinders can go bad internally.

Can you replace slave cylinder without replacing clutch? ›

However, when damage occurs, the CSC cannot be repaired – replacing the slave cylinder is the only option. Changing the slave cylinder is also recommended when replacing the clutch or removing the transmission. Replacing the clutch in isolation may lead to the need for further costly repairs shortly afterwards.

Can you still drive with a broken slave cylinder? ›

Yes it may cause problems. You could put stress on the transmission input shaft and gears, the engine crankshaft and the drive train of the vehicle. Some of these components could get broken.

How much does it cost to fix clutch slave cylinder? ›

The national cost for a clutch slave cylinder replacement in 2023 is between $82 and $1113 with an average of $199.

How much should a slave cylinder replacement cost? ›

The average cost for a Clutch Slave Cylinder Replacement is between $210 and $251. Labor costs are estimated between $110 and $138 while parts are priced between $101 and $113.

Can a slave cylinder fail suddenly? ›

Sudden failure is most often caused by a broken or loose clutch cable, linkable or a failed hydraulic master/slave cylinder. There can also be leaks in the hydraulic line or even the disc could be contaminated with something like dirt or debris.

Do I need to replace master cylinder or slave cylinder? ›

Symptoms that indicate you may need to replace the Clutch Master Cylinder & Slave Cylinder: Clutch pedal goes all the way to the floor. Clutch pedal does not return to position. Hydraulic fluid leaking around the clutch pedal.

What are the symptoms of air in the hydraulic clutch? ›

Air as cause of malfunction

As far as the hydraulic clutch is concerned, the following symptoms may occur: Change of the pedal travel. Difficulties in disengaging the clutch. Imprecise pedal feel.

Why is my clutch pedal not coming back up? ›

There are typically a few different possibilities for why a clutch pedal will stay on the floor. It could be a failed clutch master cylinder, slave cylinder, failed fluid line, or the clutch has failed.

What happens when a master slave cylinder goes out? ›

If the master cylinder is not able to properly create pressure, it will not be able to disengage the clutch properly when the pedal is pressed. This may lead to grinding the gears when shifting, and possibly even a transmission that pops out of gear.

How often should a slave cylinder be replaced? ›

Your slave cylinder is within a sealed system, so it will generally last a very long time, and may never have to be replaced.

Why is my slave cylinder not engaging? ›

If the slave cylinder is not moving, then the hydraulic system is at fault, which can be due to air in the system or in the slave cylinder. If the slave cylinder is moving fine, then the clutch itself has failed and will need to be replaced.

Where does a slave cylinder leak? ›

Leaks on the floor or engine bay

If the clutch slave cylinder develops any leaks, fluid will drip down and leave traces on the floor or in the engine bay. Depending on the severity of the leak, a leaking slave cylinder will usually also have a noticeable, adverse effects on the pedal feel as well.

Can a car run without a slave cylinder? ›

A clutch slave cylinder, or CSC, is an integral part of the way a manual transmission system works. Without it, a driver would not be able to switch gears. It works by moving pressure plates to disengage the clutch from the engine of your car when you push in the clutch pedal.

How many hours does it take to replace a slave cylinder? ›

This repair takes on average 0.94h - 1.15h for a mechanic to complete. If you aren't able to shift gears or your clutch pedal feels “soft,” it might be time to get a clutch slave cylinder replacement.

When replacing a clutch what else should be replaced? ›

When performing a clutch replacement, it is best practice to replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, pilot bearing and throw out bearing. The flywheel is also resurfaced or replaced if it is beyond the service limit or if it is a dual mass flywheel (this type of flywheel is not machinable).

Can a bad clutch damage the transmission? ›

Driving a car with a faulty clutch can cause further damage to your gearbox, starter motor or shifter. It is important to resolve any damage spotted with your clutch. However, it is still essential to know how to drive a car with no clutch.

What happens if clutch goes while driving? ›

Driving with a failed clutch can be dangerous, as when a clutch goes bad it can break apart, leaving you without a vehicle. Your mechanic will be able to make a proper diagnosis and recommended repair to get you back on the road.

Is the slave cylinder connected to the brakes? ›

What are the Master and Slave Cylinders? The master cylinder is basically a piston that pushes brake fluid into the slave cylinder (the caliper). This forces the brake pad to press against the brake disc, stopping the vehicle.

What fluid goes in slave cylinder? ›

Clutch fluid is really just brake fluid that is kept in the clutch master cylinder. When you depress the clutch pedal, this fluid flows from the clutch master cylinder into the slave cylinder. The pressure of the fluid is then used to engage the clutch, which allows you to change gears.

How long does it take to bleed a clutch slave cylinder? ›

Place a drain pan under the slave cylinder to catch the brake fluid. Bleed the brake fluid - Leave the bleeder open and allow gravity to bleed the slave cylinder for one to three minutes.

Will a bad slave cylinder make noise? ›

Gears will not shift. Clutch fluid low and/or leaking. Engine stalls because car cannot be shifted out of gear when stopping. Squeaking sound when clutch is depressed.

How do I know if my master cylinder needs to be replaced? ›

Some of the symptoms of master cylinder failure you should be on the lookout for include:
  1. Check Engine Light Indicates. The check engine light has sensors that detect any part of the engine that has malfunctioned. ...
  2. The Brake Pedal Behaves Abnormally. ...
  3. Brake Fluid Leakage. ...
  4. Brake Fluid Gets Contaminated.
Feb 18, 2021

How do I know if my master cylinder is gone? ›

Inconsistent Brakes - When a master cylinder begins to fail, sometimes the brakes will feel fine one second and lose braking power the next. If the fluid is leaking past the seals inside the cylinder, the pedal may feel firm for a moment but won't hold steady; it'll feel spongy and keep sinking towards the floor.

What happens if hydraulic breather is clogged? ›

If the passage of air out of the reservoir is restricted or blocked, the internal pressure can rise above safe levels, potentially causing serious leaks.

What happens if air gets in the master cylinder? ›

This pressure travels from the master cylinder, through the brake line, and acts on the brake caliper and brake rotor. However, if air bubbles are in the brake line, hydraulic pressure is reduced, making your entire braking system less effective and your vehicle more difficult to control.

What are the main symptoms of hydraulic failure? ›

In the case of hydraulic systems, there are three easily detectable symptoms that give early warning of root cause conditions. These symptoms are abnormal noise, high fluid temperature and slow operation.

Why does my clutch pedal go to the floor with no pressure? ›

There could be a leak on the slave cylinder causing the slave cylinder not to operate. Also, check the pin to the clutch pedal and make sure that it is hooked up to the clutch master cylinder. Check the lines and make sure that they are not cross threaded, which will not seal and cause a leak.

Why is my clutch pedal suddenly to the floor? ›

Broken Clutch Cable: The most common reason to have a clutch pedal that goes all the way to the floor is a broken clutch cable. This is extremely common, particularly on older cars. Replacing the cable will allow you to engage the clutch and change gears once more.

What is the most common problem associated with clutch? ›

“Riding” the clutch is the most common reason for premature clutch failure. Even the slightest pressure on the pedal will partially disengage the clutch, causing the release bearing, pressure plate and flywheel to overheat.

Can a clutch slave cylinder be bad without leaking? ›

Even if there is no external leak, slave cylinders can go bad internally.

What happens if slave cylinder breaks? ›

This can lead to a gear change becoming incredibly difficult to perform as the force being applied through the clutch pedal is simply not enough to efficiently actuate the clutch fork. Therefore a faulty slave cylinder can render a car nearly undriveable if failure occurs.

Can you replace slave cylinder without removing transmission? ›

If you need to replace the slave cylinder, the transmission will have to be removed from the engine to gain access to the part. If you need further assistance with the slave cylinder, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

How often do you need to replace a slave cylinder? ›

That said, there's really no defined time period for clutch slave cylinder replacement – it's not a part of your regular maintenance. Chances are that if you own your vehicle for long enough, or if you've bought an older vehicle, it's not unreasonable to think that at some point, the slave cylinder will begin to leak.

Will a car start with a bad slave cylinder? ›

Even if your clutch pedal is on the floor due to a bad master/slave problem, your car should still start. You can always have it in neutral so it starts freely.

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