If you’ve previously bled your clutch, then it’s due to having some problems with the clutch. In most cases, the clutch will function better after bleeding. But there are times when there might not be any pressure in the clutch after bleeding it. This article focuses on the potential causes of this problem and how to fix it.
Not bleeding the clutch correctly and damage to other clutch components are reasons why there might be no pressure in the clutch after bleeding.
You shouldn’t bleed your clutch unless you have to. Signs of a clutch that needs bleeding include a spongy or soft clutch. Sometimes, it may be more difficult to engage the gear.
Below, we discuss in full the reasons why there might be no pressure in your clutch after bleeding.
Why Your Clutch May Not Have Pressure After Bleeding It
The purpose of bleeding a clutch is to remove air from the clutch fluid. The clutch system uses a hydraulic fluid similar to the braking system, and the presence of air in the clutch fluid will have a negative effect on the performance of the clutch. You’ll also need to bleed the clutch anytime you open the master cylinder, which serves as the reservoir for clutch fluid.
The main reason why you may not have pressure in your clutch after bleeding is incorrect bleeding. There is a right way to bleed clutch fluid, and if you don’t bleed your clutch properly, you may not get any pressure from it.
You should also check if the slave cylinder is working. Sometimes, leaks occur on the slave cylinder, and when this happens, the slave cylinder won’t get enough fluid, and there will be no pressure in the clutch.
A pin connects the clutch pedal to the master cylinder. The master cylinder is an important component of the clutch system, and its major function is to convert the force applied to the clutch into hydraulic pressure. Check that the hook mentioned earlier is the master cylinder.
All these are the possible reasons why there might be no pressure in the clutch after bleeding. It’s all about ensuring that the clutch is bled properly, checking if there are leaks in the fluid lines, and making sure all components of the clutch are in good condition.
How To Properly Bleed Clutch Fluid
As mentioned earlier, there’s a right way to bleed clutch fluid. If you don’t bleed your clutch properly, then it won’t function as intended. There are three ways you can bleed a clutch, and they include:
Manual Clutch Bleeding Process
This method involves two people, so you’ll need someone else to help you. One person will have to pump the clutch pedal while the second person will open and close the bleed valves.
Pressure Process
This method involves the use of a pressure bleeder that is attached to the master cylinder. The pressure bleeder then pressurizes the hydraulic fluid and draws it into the master cylinder. Then, some will have to open and close the bleed valve at the slave cylinder.
Vacuum Process
In this method, a vacuum bleeder is used. The bleeder is connected to the bleeder valve on the slave cylinder. This vacuums or draws the fluid from the master cylinder, which is then transferred into an external vessel. The vacuum process is convenient as it can be carried out by only one person.
The Manual Clutch Bleeding Process
Requirements for this process are:
- Someone else to help you.
- Clutch fluid.
- A wrench.
The first thing to do when bleeding a clutch manually is to first check the current level of the fluid in the reservoir. If the current level is below the fill-in, add new clutch fluid until you have enough fluid to reach the fill line.
After filling up the fluid, locate the bleeder screw on the slave cylinder and put a pan underneath it. The next step is to tell your helper to pump the clutch a few times before pressing the clutch all the way down and then holding it in that position.
Using a wrench, open the bleeder valve/screw a bit. Half a turn of the wrench is usually enough, and you’ll see both air and liquid coming out of the screw. Leave the valve open until fluid stops coming out of the valve. Then screw back the valve and tell your helper to release the clutch pedal after you’ve tightly screwed the valve.
Repeat this process until you stop hearing any hissing sound or detect air coming out. Then make sure the fluid reservoir is full.
Using A Pressure Bleeder
You’ll need the following items:
- A pressure bleeder (obviously).
- Jack and Jack stand.
- A flexible and clear hose that will fit into the slave cylinder bleeder valve.
- Cup, pan, or can to collect the fluid.
With all these ready, jack up the front of the car and open the hood. Open the clutch fluid reservoir and check the level of the clutch fluid. If the fluid is below the fill line, add enough fresh clutch fluid until the fluid reaches the fill line.
The next step is to attach the pressure bleeder to the top of the reservoir. Then pump the clutch a couple of times. If you are using a power bleeder, pump the bleeder to a reading of about 12 PSI. Then go under the car and screw the bleed valve. Use a wrench to slightly open the valve and get a container ready to collect the fluid.
Let the fluid flow until there are no air bubbles coming out with it. Then top off the clutch fluid to the fill mark. Test your clutch to check how easy it is to engage and disengage.
Signs Your Clutch Needs Replacement
For those not familiar with the clutch system of a car, it’s an important component that allows you to change gears by disconnecting the engines from the wheel. It’s also the clutch that makes it possible to bring a car to a complete stop while the engine is still running.
Common signs that a clutch needs replacement include difficulty when shifting gears, spongy or loose clutch pedal when pressed, and poor acceleration while being able to rev up the engine. Sometimes, you hear a squeaking or grumbling sound whenever the clutch pedal is pressed.
