My clutch fluid in my TII keeps turning black. I changed the fluid last week. It goes from a yellow to a black. It doesn't lose any fluid just changes color fast. I also noticed if I hold my clutch in the grab point is closer to the floor.


I figure I have to change the slave and master but I was just curious as to why it will change color?

 

Most likely the clutch slave hose lining is being eaten away...

Also could be seals in the master and / or slave cylinders deteriorating...


-Ted

 

Yep... turning dark is normally a sign of water in the fluid, but turning black means there is a seal dissolving or a bad hose

 

Thanks guys. I'll try changing the fluid again and order new parts.


Should I order new hoses to? Just replace everything?

 

Remember, if you are using DOT 3 fluid, only use new fluid... once you have opened a can, it is only good for a couple of weeks before it absorbs enough moisture from the air to start degrading.

 

I would replace the flex hose and clean and check all other parts as needed. Moisture getting into the system usualy causes the fluid to darken. As long as you flush it all out and replace the flexhose which is probably turning soft inside. Flush the master and slave with clean fluid. Never reuse fluid collected from the bleading process. Also don,t use compressed air to clean lines on brakes or clutch lines, compressed air contains moisture which dosent mix with brake fluid.

 

You can use compressed air if you have a water trap in the line.

 

Sounds like it's a worn Clutch Master Cylinder.

When the seal on the Piston starts to wear down, the piston will start to rub and Polish the inside of the Cylinder Bore. Scuffed off aluminum from being polished oxidizes instantly and is Very Black.

Any fluid by-pass around the piston will shorten the throw on the slave cylinder and cause the clutch to engage later (closer to the floor). To test this: Push the clutch pedal VERY SLOWLY with Very Little Pressure all the way to the floor. If the fluid is By-Passing the clutch wont engage at all.

Mark