10-07-2022, 03:31 AM
Bleeding the clutch is not exactly like bleeding brakes. When you pull the clutch lever in, it goes to the bar, so a much larger amount of fluid is pushed to expand the slave cylinder, and stubborn air bubbles can be trapped inside the expanded slave cylinder.
I have bled clutch systems by taking the slave cylinder off, but still connected, as you did, and using a small portable drill press vise, prevented the piston from expanding outward, and bleeding it with the same resistance you would feel in the brakes.
If you don't have a small vise, a heavy C-clamp should also work. With the clutch cylinder restrained, you should also bleed both upper and lower banjo bolts, as air gets trapped there also.
Max is correct in saying there are high points under the tank, but the line is one piece from the master to the slave cylinder. You can move a large amount of fluid by back-bleeding the system. With the clutch cylinder off and the piston all the way in, pull the clutch lever in once only, then manually push the piston back in. That should be enough to push most of the fluid in the line u back into the reservoir.
Make sure you have the master cylinder covered, and the level is low fluid before back-bleeding. Also a good idea to cover the gas tank whenever the brake or clutch master cylinders are accessed. If you get brake fluid on any painted surface, seal up master cylinder and flush the area with water to dilute it.
I have bled clutch systems by taking the slave cylinder off, but still connected, as you did, and using a small portable drill press vise, prevented the piston from expanding outward, and bleeding it with the same resistance you would feel in the brakes.
If you don't have a small vise, a heavy C-clamp should also work. With the clutch cylinder restrained, you should also bleed both upper and lower banjo bolts, as air gets trapped there also.
Max is correct in saying there are high points under the tank, but the line is one piece from the master to the slave cylinder. You can move a large amount of fluid by back-bleeding the system. With the clutch cylinder off and the piston all the way in, pull the clutch lever in once only, then manually push the piston back in. That should be enough to push most of the fluid in the line u back into the reservoir.
Make sure you have the master cylinder covered, and the level is low fluid before back-bleeding. Also a good idea to cover the gas tank whenever the brake or clutch master cylinders are accessed. If you get brake fluid on any painted surface, seal up master cylinder and flush the area with water to dilute it.