The clutch slave cylinder bleed valve can be accessed through the
engine compartment, but it helps to have small hands, and LOTs of
patience.  It's best to have a partner.

I would try to bleed the system first.  If that doesn't fix things,
then examine the slave and master cylinders.  Look for traces of
fluid inside the boots, indicating either bad seals or corroded
cylinder.  If the fluid hasn't been regularly changed, corrosion can
start on the cylinder walls.  If the cylinder walls are OK, then a
rebuild kit (rubber parts) can be used.  The rebuild kits are much
cheaper (about $20) than a new cylinder, but the rebuild process is
time-consuming and messy.  I rebuilt my cylinders with good results.
About 3 years later, I changed the cylinders.

John Hung
Auburn, AL
84 Vanagon GL

>Date:    Tue, 26 Dec 2000 11:54:20 -0800
>From:    Jeff and Deb <jeffndeb@GCI.NET>
>Subject: Re: no clutch pedal resistance & no clutch engaging
>
>Thanks for the reply,  Yes, it worked perfectly when I parked it.  I looked
>at the Bentley manual, and see 1 bleeder valve located on the Slave
>cylinder.  I have to admit that I have not bled the clutch hydraulics
>before.  Can I access the valve through the engine compartment?   I see that
>there are some warnings about improper types of hydraulic fluid, and a
>recommendation for replacing the fluid every 2 years.  I am not aware of any
>servicing of the fluid previous to my purchase 4 years ago.  How do I verify
>that this is the correct fluid, or simply replace it?
>
>Appreciate the tips,
>
>Jeff Hartman
>Juneau, AK
>86 Vanagon