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Old November 8th 08, 09:17 PM posted to rec.autos.makers.honda,uk.rec.cars.maintenance
jim beam
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Posts: 1,796
Default No pressure on clutch pedal - can't change gear

On Sat, 08 Nov 2008 19:52:05 +0000, Al Reynolds wrote:

> Hi,
>
> I've just gone out to my 97 Honda Accord and there is no pressure on my
> clutch pedal.
>
> If I push it down, it goes all the way to the floor, and if I then lift
> it a little the spring causes
> it to come back up. Initially there was a little bit of pressure
> bringing it back up, but now
> there's none (engine off or on).
>
> When the engine is on, I can't engage any gears, presumably because
> depressing the
> clutch pedal is not having the normal effect. With the engine off, I
> can select any of the
> gears, and if I start the car in a gear it 'jumps' which implies the
> clutch *is* engaged
> and the gear selection is working. I am a bit wary of doing this too
> much as I don't want
> to put unnecessary strain on any other components in the clutch/gearbox.
>
> My guess is clutch master or cylinder - does that sound right? Is there
> anything simpler
> that could cause these symptoms? I had a full service about a month
> ago, so all the
> fluids should have been topped up then, and I haven't noticed any fluid
> leaks on the
> driveway. I'd go and check the fluids right now but it's dark and
> there's a gale blowing!
>
> As it stands I'm going to have to get it towed to the garage as I can't
> drive it at the moment.
>
> Thanks for any help anyone can offer, Al
>
> PS If anyone in the UK is reading, what sort of figure should I be
> looking out for a new
> clutch cylinder fitted at an independent mechanic?


clutch master is the commonest fault. needs replacement. if you need to
drive the car, you might be able to refill the clutch fluid reservoir and
pump it sufficiently to get it working, but this is a strictly temporary
fix.

beware also that brake fluid is leaking inside the car and will need to be
cleaned out. soapy water is best. dry with paper towels to make sure the
brake fluid chemicals are removed, not simply diluted.

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