PURPOSE
A mechanical configuration of linkages is to move the clutch lever fork.  A mechanical configuration is used instead of a hydraulic clutch applicator.  This is also adjustable.  A mechanical configuration may also use a cable that makes it adjustable.  Any clutch assembly must have free play.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR
A mechanical clutch configuration may require adjustment.  If you notice the pedal becoming hard to press this could be an indication of a frayed cable or a clutch assembly sticking.  As the pedal becomes harder to push this shows that it needs to be attended to ASAP.  A mechanical or cable clutch assembly may not tolerate a hard pedal and either snap the clip or rod.  When driving up hill if you notice the engine revs increasing but the speed doesn’t, the clutch assembly is slipping.  It either requires adjustment or the assembly itself needs replacing. 

IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
Most mechanical configurations use a cable assembly which costs between $60.00-$80.00 for the cable.

TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
A cable or mechanical assembly is best with 2-4mm free play.  A cable without free play will cause the clutch assembly to slip and rapidly deteriorate costing a lot more than the cable or cable adjustment.

 
This article is found in the Virtual mechanic CD Rom
You can download it for the price of a latte, but you will learn not to buy a lemon
By Darren Gow-Brown, Melbourne Australia ©2009

THINGS TO LOOK FOR
The clutch slave cylinder is a component under pressure while it is in use making it possible to leak.  If there are any drops, or dampness is found around the clutch slave cylinder, it needs to be attended to ASAP.  The most common sign is a clutch pedal going to the floor and also there is difficulty in selecting gears. If you have to force a gear selector into gear this is the time to stop as the selector mechanism is a fragile component that will not tolerate the mechanisms being forced.

IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
The clutch slave cylinder is repairable but not if the bore is scored then it needs to be replaced, costing between $50.00-150.00.

TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
It is possible to repair the clutch slave cylinder especially if it is made of cast iron but check the bore.  If the bore is scored it may be better replaced.  The clutch slave cylinder will need to be bled after being installed.

This article is found in the Virtual mechanic CD Rom
You can download it for the price of a latte, but you will learn not to buy a lemon
By Darren Gow-Brown, Melbourne Australia ©2009