Clutch loses pressure

[dilkington]

Hi there, can anyone help me diagnose what might be wrong with the clutch on my saab. (1992SE LPT hatchback)

I had a problem with the clutch fluid (shared with brake fluid reservoir on my model). The level was low - the ABS brake light came on. When I topped up the fluid the clutch initially was ok, and then it went completely, - no pressure at all - I assumed it had sucked some air in.

After bleeding the clutch it is working fine, but sometimes it just loses pressure and the bite point on the clutch goes right to the floor (which makes for a pretty jerky ride), and I am worried that at some point it is just going to drop its pressure completely again.
The reservoir level seems stable for four weeks now and I have checked for leaks but don't appear to have any.

Anyone any ideas ?

Many thanks

[the saab man]

leaking slave cylinder, i think it is quite common on c900's, ive had exact same problem on two of mine.

nathan

[dilkington]

Hi there

thanks, I was afraid of that

Is it a big job to get done ? - am I looking at spending lots of money ?

[Matthew]

Check the FAQ for some slave cylinder replacement threads which give you a good idea of what's involved.
http://www.saabcentral.com/forums/sh...ad.php?t=62123

Probably three hours work + parts for a mechanic.

Make sure you take it to a Saab garage though as the clutch setup on a 900 is a bit weird.

Slave cylinders aren't particularl prone to leaking. Any puddles of fluid under the car?

If you check my clutch thread (in the FAQ) you'll see how to find out if the master cylinder's leaking.

Also check the flexible hose in the clutch circuit which is just before the slave cylinder.

[Gabby]

My guess is a weak/dying clutch master cylinder that is allowing hydraulic (brake) fluid to bleed by the seals when you hold the clutch in is your gremlin.

The one on my 88 is starting to do that. I purposely do not hold the clutch in when waiting at intersections to prolong its life. I need to just go ahead and spring for a new one, though......