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TR2/3/3A Clutch issue maybe master cylinder

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Got_All_4

Got_All_4

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Started noticing last week after 400 miles and after rebuild that the clutch was getting a mushy feel. (rebuild means the car, including clutch plate replaced, through out bearing and a thorough bleeding of hydraulics). Turns out there is now a 1/2 inch of play in the master cylinder push rod. Last week it might have been 3/8" so it could be getting worse. Fluid level is at the top. I can push the rod forward a 1/2" before it hits the piston. What could be going on?

Another problem has arrived with the water pump after a 50 mile ride tonight. I'll post a separate message.
 
I had to bleed my clutch a few times to get the bubbles out, not sure why, its such a short run.

Have you tried bleeding it again?
 
It sounds like the piston may not be returning all the way. That would be the likely explanation for an increase in the pedal linkage play at the MC.

I once rebuilt an MC, and had that issue. I had to disassemble it again and polish the cylinder bore so the piston would return fully. Of course a weak return spring (also inside the cylinder) could also prevent the piston from returning fully too.
 
Who ever said the return spring is broke won! No can I go to a hard where store and get a spring to work out of one of their assortments?
 

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Or the auto parts store for a rebuild kit. You would need to determine if you have a .75 ( likely) or .70. But with either kit you should get the spring. The remainder of the kit would be for good measure, if you use it.
Charley
 
I don't think the springs are included in rebuild kits. I have some old ones, yours for the postage, or I can measure one and give you the dimensions.
Berry
 
Make sure you also have the outside return spring. This can cause the same problem over sometime.

Don
 
I've seen MC rebuild kits that included springs, but usually they don't. In the worst case, you can get a new MC from Victoria British for $32. If it were me, though, I'd try to find a new spring at the hardware store. Just the way I am--hate to throw good hardware away.
 
I was watching the IRL race Saturday night and during the big crash I went into the garage and started rummaging through a bunch of old parts I've got around. Found a TR7 clutch master cylinder and by eye ball site they looked close. Took it apart and low and behold it had a perfectly good spring and it was the exact size. Reassembled after the race and went on a 80 mile trip Sunday and worked perfect. I did stop at the hardware store and they did have a spring that was the correct diameter and length. put it in the glove box. You never know.
 
CJD said:
It sounds like the piston may not be returning all the way. That would be the likely explanation for an increase in the pedal linkage play at the MC.

I once rebuilt an MC, and had that issue. I had to disassemble it again and polish the cylinder bore so the piston would return fully. Of course a weak return spring (also inside the cylinder) could also prevent the piston from returning fully too.
Click to expand...
Have the same issue with a newly rebuilt cylinder, worked fine on the bench but started to hang as soon as it got fully rinsed with DOT 5. Curious as to how you polished it.
Tom
 
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