bleeding clutch on 84 saab 900s?

Question

any easy ways to do it? Haynes manual talks about a hose and pressure on all sorts of stuff. Normal way of bleeding doesn't seem to be working? Know any tricks?

Answer 1

These are an ABSOLUTE nightmare for many in the shop.
Physics is at work here. The master cylinder is ABOVE the clutch (slave) cylinder. Air wants to rise in a fluid, so as you try to bleed the cylinder, the air is constantly trying to go "backwards".
There is no easy answer.
One way to do this is to GRAVITY bleed the system. The master cylinder cover is removed and placed aside. The reservoir is kept full, and the bleeder screw is opened, and checked for restriction or obstructions. It must be clear. Watch the cylinder for dripping, and when the master cylinder needs more fluid, keep it topped off. DO NOT allow it to go dry. As you observe the bleeder screw, watch the flow and when you see no more evidence of air, close it. Top off the master cylinder, cover it, and try the clutch. If it still isn't satisfactory, try some more.
The only other successful way is to put some brake fluid in a pressurized atmosphere and connect it to the bleeder screw. Open the screw and push the fluid backwards up to the master cylinder. Pay attention, you don't want the brake fluid all over the engine bay, and CERTAINLY not on your paint.

Good Luck