Project 45: Replacing the Clutch Slave Cylinder

[Wayne 962]

Got any questions on Project 45 for your E36 or E30? Ask them here!

-Wayne

[JBlood]

Wayne -

What size of flare wrench do I need for this project on my 1998 328is? I am planning on replacing the clutch line too, any extra thoughts on that?

[Jeron]

I used an 11, 14 and 17mm when I did my CDV delete.

I would bleed the clutch slave before reinstalling it by turning the bleed nipple up and compressing the piston with one hand while cracking open the nipple with the other. The reason for this is when installed the nipple points down allowing air to remain trapped.

Make sure when you stab the slave into the tranny that the piston rod hits the fork. Its a big target but if you put the piston rod in a a severe angle you can miss the fork and you will destroy your slave when you try to use the clutch. When you install the slave you will know if you hit the fork because you will have to press and hold the slave body onto the tranny with one hand while threading the nuts with the other.

[Wayne 962]

Hmm, good question on the sizing, I'm not sure - I have a few sizes, I just pulled out of my toolbox. Off the top of my head, I think it's 11mm - I know it's that size on the Porsches...

-Wayne

[JBlood]

OK -

I should be able to make it work. I just don't have "flare" wrenches so I was going to go get a couple so I don't strip the connections.

Thanks!

[Wayne 962]

That's smart - please don't try to do it without using the wrench (I have tried in the past). It's not worth it, as it's much more difficult to replace the line (well, actually this line is pretty easy, but the hard brake lines on a Porsche 356 are *not*).

-Wayne