Update:
 

UPDATE:

Dropped my Z off this morning at the dealer. Just got a call stating that they noticed insufficient heat shielding on the clutch line and damage to the heat shielding around the CAT.
They flushed the clutch fluid, which was completely blackened, checked the system for leaks (none were found), addressed the clutch line shielding, and are replacing the CAT under emissions components warranty.
I get my car back this afternoon. We'll see how it feels. $0 charge for services. :)

It seems that the last time the CSC was replaced, it was not buttoned up correctly which over time led to the problems.

Who knows. I am already looking to get the zspeed unit because, YES, I know this will fail again at some point... I have a 3rd party warranty with a $100 deductible that I used to get the first CSC replaced. I asked the dealer if they would install the zspeed unit instead of the OEM unit WHEN my current unit fails if I supplied it.
They didn't think it would be a problem, but they would have to document to the warranty company that a non OEM part was installed, which may void any further warranty service on that part.

...That's fine by me. :) I will just make sure they replace the master too.

If they have a problem installing a non OEM part at the dealer, they said I can have the work done at another shop that accepts warranty claims.

Hopefully that won't be for a while yet.

Wow... black clutch fluid with no system leaks and they replace the catalytic converter? Sounds like a typical dealer experience :ugh2:

Btw I have over 10K miles in the Texas summer sun without the clutch line heat shielding. No issues whatsoever.

Got the Z and drove her home. Clutch feels perfect. Very tight and consistent the whole drive, which included about 15 miles of freeway. I didn't notice any of the symptoms that I previously had, just like the last time I did the flush. Hopefully this time it will last longer.
:tiphat:

It's funny how you Yanks get all the dodgy Z's :stirthepot:

It's not a coincidence. My theory is Japan still holds a bit of a grudge.

i agree,

japan got payback, no cool cars under 100K