Flush and Replace Clutch Fluid

[Gamingphreek]

1995 Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab 2.7LI I4

My clutch pedal has recently developed a habit of getting stuck down (or not coming back up nearly as fast as it should).

My first thought was the Master/Slave cylinder (Hydraulic Clutch obviously), but when I checked the clutch fluid it was still present; however, it was barely BARELY touching the minimum line.

Given that my truck has 150,000 miles (very close to it) I figured flushing it and filling it again would be much more beneficial than simply adding fluid to top it off.

I found the clutch fluid reservoir; however, I am have never flushed the clutch fluid before and I wanted to make sure what I know, but haven't practiced, is correct.

1. Find the Clutch Fluid Reservoir. (Check)
2. Find the Clutch Line leading to the bleeder valve.
3. Turn the nut on the valve a small amount to let the fluid start draining (into a container).
4. Begin pumping the clutch to empty out 90% of the fluid.
5. Tighten valve and add DOT3 Brake Fluid

(My manual says DOT3, but I have heard that DOT4 is better to add. Anyone have any input on this?)

Thanks,
-Kevin

 

[bruceb]

Use whatever spec brake fluid is listed for the clutch on your car ... Some types do not mix well with the others. And you have to bleed all the air out at clutch slave after you fill. Same procedure as when you bleed brakes.

 

[Gamingphreek]

Originally posted by: bruceb
Use whatever spec brake fluid is listed for the clutch on your car ... Some types do not mix well with the others. And you have to bleed all the air out at clutch slave after you fill. Same procedure as when you bleed brakes.

Gotcha - I just added fluid so I wasn't rushed since I have to leave in 1 hour.

Thanks for verifying my procedure though - I really appreciate it.

-Kevin

 

[jagec]

There is no reason not to use DOT4, it's better and fully compatible with DOT3.

Don't pump the clutch up and down when you're bleeding it. It's a 2-man job: One person pushes the clutch to the floor and holds it with the bleed valve CLOSED, the other person opens the bleed valve and catches the fluid, then closes the valve, the first person pumps the pedal a couple times and then holds it to the floor again, rinse and repeat. Add fluid to the reservoir as needed to keep it topped off.

 

[dawp]

also a bad slave or master cylinder can cause it to go down and stay down, tho a slave most likely will never recover when pumped. Had a bad master cylinder act in such a way in the past. somtimes I prefer a cable cluch, much simpler.