Date:         Fri, 7 Aug 1998 11:09:54 -0500
Reply-To:     "Robert S. Williams, MD" <rwill@DIGITECHS.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         "Robert S. Williams, MD" <rwill@DIGITECHS.COM>
Subject:      Need Help adjusting clutch master cylinder
Comments: To: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

OK... I tried but just can't seem to get a wrench on the locknut for the
clutch master cylinder pushrod; the rod that connects the clutch pedal to
the clutch master cylinder piston.

I had a problem with clutch drag emerge during a 3000 mile trip.  When
shifting into 3rd or 4th gears, the gears grab ala "if ya can't find em,
grind em" ... this is with the clutch fully depressed. the brake fluid
resevoir has been at the same level for a year. I can't see any break fluid
leaks at either the clutch master or slave cylinders. I _do_ detect some
play in depressing the clutch pedal...some free travel before the pedal
engages. So, I figure that I need to adjust the clutch master cylinder
connecting rod. The problem is that it is nearly impossible to get at it.
THe clutch master cylinder is situated between the brake and clutch pedals
in a recess... I can barely visualize the locknut in question using a
mirror when the clutch pedal is depressed fully... ANd I can't get a wrench
around that locknut to save my life.

Has anyone managed to preform this feat? If so, PLEASE tell me how to do
it. This adjustment is my only hope of a cheap cure. I might take a stab at
bleeding the clutch hydraulic system, but after that it's off to the VW
surgeons   to pull the engine and put a new throwout bearing and overhaul
the  whole clutch.



                                        Robert S. Williams, MD
                                        '82 Aircooled Westie