Under normal operation the clutch pressure plate pushes the driven (slave),
cylinder back in when the pedal is released. Without the pressure plate the
driven cylinder will be pushed out by the internal spring and pumping
action. Without it being retracted it will bottom out. Continued pressure
will ruin both cylinders and possibly blow out one of the lines. When doing
brakes keep this in mind. Do not step on the brake pedal with drums removed
or calipers out unless the goal is to push the pistons out.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
George Laubach
Sent: Sunday, May 06, 2012 6:22 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Clutch pedal goes only halfway

'84 Westy, 1.9L WBXR

I am less than a week away from installing my 1.9L (to 2.2L GoWesty kit
(keeping the 1.9 case)).  While the engine has been at the machine shop I've
taken the liberty of replacing several 28 year old components.

Specific to the clutch, I replaced the master and slave cylinders, and
throw-out bearing.  While bleeding the system, I note that the pedal
depresses only halfway.

So, what do you think?  This is my first time at this, so I don't know if
things shape up after everything gets installed, but I need to get this
curiosity resolved before I close things up.

I also installed new rear drum brakes (whole system) among other things, and
will be installing the VanCafe clutch kit.

Your wisdom, experience, and advice is appreciated.

Skip
Elgin, IL