>
> Thanks to all for the help with my clutch bleeding question.  I purchased a
> Mity-vac and I think it will make the job easier.  I still have one
> problem.......The clutch pedal will not depress unless the bleeder valve is
> open.  Could it be that the engine needs to be installed first so the clutch
> pressure plate presses the T/O bearing in??? Could it be the pivot bolt on

I wouldn't think so, as with the throwout bearing pressing against the
pressure plate, it would make the clutch even harder to push!

You should be able to move the clutch release lever arm by hand with the
engine out.  There is no return spring (there is one on the pedal, but
not on the clutch release arm).  Maybe you should try moving it to make
sure it's not bound up.

Additionally, when installing the new slave cylinder, did you make sure
to align the slave cylinder with the knob on the clutch lever arm?  That
may be another place you could have it binding.

> the release shaft is too tight or is in the wrong position?

You can check this as above.

Or could too
> much air in the system be locking up the piston in the slave cylinder?

I wouldn't think so, but I don't know for sure.  Typically air in the
system would make it spongy, not a harder pedal.  I would check as above
for something binding.

Other
> info.....when the bleeder valve is open and you depress the clutch there is
> no movement of the slave cylinder (its new).
>
It shouldn't move when the bleeder is open.  You are providing the fluid
with an easier escape path out of the line when the bleeder is open so
it will flow out of the bleeder valve rather than actuate the slave
cylinder.  When the bleeder is closed, then since the fluid can't get
out, the increase in pressure moves the slave cylinder piston and pushes
on the clutch release arm.

--
Sean Bartnik
Fredericksburg, Virginia
1981 Volkswagen Vanagon L Westfalia
1974 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia convertible
http://www.type2.com/bartnik/myvan.htm
http://www.mwc.edu/~sbart7kb/vwbooks.htm