Ranger Clutch Fluid Change procedure?

SINISTER

I am unsure if the 370z clutch hydraulics work the same as the the corvette. If it does (I suspect it does) then this method can be performed regularly versus the flush and bleed (which you need an assistant -who follows instructions perfectly , you need to get under the car, and you run the risk of air getting into the system)...If anyone knows please comment.

The corvette clutch hydraulics work as follows.

The clutch hydraulic system consists of a master cylinder and an actuator cylinder.

When pressure is applied to the clutch pedal (pedal depressed), the pushrod contacts the plunger and pushes it down the bore of the master cylinder.

In the first 0.8 mm (0.031 in) of movement, the recuperation seal closes the port to the fluid reservoir tank, and as the plunger continues to move down the bore of the cylinder, the fluid is forced through the outlet line to the actuator cylinder mounted to the driveline support assembly.

As fluid is pushed down the pipe from the master cylinder, this in turn forces the piston in the actuator cylinder outward.

As the actuator cylinder moves forward, it forces the release bearing to disengage the clutch pressure plate from the clutch disc.

On the return stroke (pedal released), the plunger moves back as a result of the return pressure of the clutch.

Fluid returns to the master cylinder and the final movement of the plunger opens the port to the fluid reservoir, allowing an unrestricted flow between system and reservoir.

Summary: Clutch fluid circulates between the master and actuator (slave).

Note: The volume of fluid in the entire system is a very few ounces. One ounce is in the master cylinder reservoir until diminished as you depress the pedal and create the flow described above.

nis350

i don't think the fluid circulates between the cmc and csc. there is no return line from the csc (bottom) to the cmc (top).

the fluid at or near the csc (bottom) can't return to the cmc on the top.

SINISTER

What you quoted is actually a quote on how the Corvette system works from their service manual and quoted by Ranger.
It is definately the way the corvette system works....
But your saying that this is what is different with the 370z and the Corvette system?

nis350

I'm sorry. I don't have any knowledge about the vette.

The diameter of the brake line is very small and I just don't see how the fluid at the bottom of the system (csc) get back up to the top (cmc) without a return line from the csc to the cmc. The fluid only travel one way which is from the cmc to the csc.

The same can be said about the brake system. The fluid at the calibers would never get back up to the master cylinder.

SINISTER

Interesting....so no return or outlet line. I see that makes a bleed necessary...
Maybe this is good for some ongoing maitenance to keep it fresh but to get it all cleaned out a flush/bleed sounds like it is necessary...
Thanks!