Re: 4KCSQ Hard Shifting

[Robert Myers <rmyers@wvit.wvnet.edu>]

A---snip---

>The problem with the clutch is more than likely the fluid.  Clutches use
>brake fluid in their hydraulic system.  If the fluid becomes contaminated
>with water or dirt it causes trouble.  Water is more easily compressed than
>brake fluid, so when you push the pedal you must first squeeze the water
>down until you get enough pressure to move the pieces. 

Wrong!  Water is essentially incompressible!

I agree that replacing the fluid is likely the solution to Todd's problem,
but it's not due to compressibility of water.

>If there is dirt then
>you are adding the extra effort of moving mud to the equation.  Not to
>mention it'll tear the seals up, eventually leaving you with no clutch
whatever.

>If you change gear oils and bleed out all the old brake fluid for the clutch
>and replace it with Castrol LMA (Dot 4--More resistant to moisture) you'll
>notice vastly improved results!

Agreed, but...

DOT 4 = higher boiling point (than DOT 3 which is the common grade available
at parts places such as NAPA, etc.) = resistance to heat-caused brake fade,
not resistance to water.

___
	Bob 
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*  Robert L. Myers                        <rmyers@wvit.wvnet.edu>  *
*  Chair, Department of Chemistry          304-442-3358 (office)   *
*  West Virginia Institute of Technology   304-574-2372 (home)     *
*  Montgomery, WV  25136                                           *
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*        My Siberian Huskies like to ride in my '89 200TQ          *
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