Re: quattro-digest V4 #3422

[knotnook@traverse.com]

Date: Fri, 29 Jan 1999 11:38:10 EST
From: MSV96@aol.com
Subject: 87 5ktq clutch not disengaging...

As the subject line implies, my 87 5ktq is having trouble with the clutch
disengaging. This seems to be more of a problem with colder temperatures (30's
<f> is what we call cold here).

I have read past accounts of master cylinder problems and/or clutch internals
causing these difficulties.

The MC and slave were done by the PO of the car some 60-70k miles back. The MC
has had a slight drip for a few months now...I suspect it. The system was bled
for me (by an independent shop that is pretty good) about 16 months ago. 

My plan of action is:

I have a fresh supply of ATE fluid and an eezebled (sp?) in hand to flush and
bleed brakes and clutch.

Should I be suspecting the MC and/or slave? (My only BTDT is with a 4kq where
the pedal sucks toward the floor typically).

Should I worry about the dreaded clutch throw-out bearing issues??? (When it
works, it works fine and the feel is fairly light.)

Anything I am missing and/or tips? TIA

Mike Veglia
87 5kcstq (with clutch that stays partially engaged when cold out)



Similar performance on my 87 5kcstq.  First check was the brake fluid
reservior, which has a little spout on the side to supply the clutch MC.
When fluid level gets below the spout, it can suck air to the clutch
system.  After a refill, the clutch pumped back up to normal operation for
a couple of months before it finally gave out.  New MC and slave working
like new.

Kneale Brownson
2 '864kcsq, 1 '875kcstq