Tech Tip: Reverse Bleeding Basics – UnderhoodService

Tech Tip: Reverse Bleeding Basics

Many vehicles can develop release problems after a clutch change or replacement of the hydraulic release system components; usually consisting of a clutch master cylinder, slave cylinder and line. Conventional bleeding is usually done by opening the slave cylinder bleeder valve and either gravity bleeding or pumping the clutch pedal while opening and closing the slave bleeder valve.

Many vehicles can develop release problems after a clutch change or replacement of the hydraulic release system components; usually consisting of a clutch master cylinder, slave cylinder and line.
 
Conventional bleeding is usually done by opening the slave cylinder bleeder valve and either gravity bleeding or pumping the clutch pedal while opening and closing the slave bleeder valve.
 
Many new slave cylinders do not have a bleeder valve and must be reverse bled by simply filling the release system with hydraulic fluid and stroking the slave cylinder in and out several dozen times (slave must be lower than the master). This will force trapped air up and out of the vented master cylinder reservoir cap. Bleeder valve must be closed on slave cylinders that have them.  

Ford Explorer, Ranger and Aerostar can really be hard to bleed because of the mounting position of the master cylinder. These applications respond very well to reverse bleeding if the master is first removed from the fire wall and leveled.
 
An animated version of reverse bleeding is available at lukclutch.com that should clear up any questions about reverse bleeding — especially those difficult Ford applications above.

Link to animated instructions:    
http://bulletins.schaeffler-aftermarket.us/vidLib/lb171.phtml.

You May Also Like

Toyota FJ Cruiser Water Pump Replacement

Toyota’s original Land Cruiser was the company’s version of a Jeep that could go anywhere. In its time it was highly rated and collected, which led the Japanese juggernaut to bring back an updated SUV in 2007 called the FJ Cruiser. The retro-styled vehicle was again a go anywhere machine powered by a 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE) used in the Tacoma. The engines are durable and considered relatively robust for the time.

Toyota’s original Land Cruiser was the company’s version of a Jeep that could go anywhere. In its time it was highly rated and collected, which led the Japanese juggernaut to bring back an updated SUV in 2007 called the FJ Cruiser. The retro-styled vehicle was again a go anywhere machine powered by a 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE) used in the Tacoma. The engines are durable and considered relatively robust for the time.

Long-Life Coolants Explained

Different types of coolants cover a range of applications from diesel to domestic, Asian and European vehicles. Each one is formulated to a specific manufacturer’s specifications to keep their engines at an optimal temperature. But, changes to the old one-size-fits-all formula has led to confusion for consumers and even some technicians.

VIDEO: Engine Efficiency Brings More Hoses

Andrew Markel discusses hoses and the necessity for several of them to route fluids to all parts of the vehicle due to the growing efficiency of engines. Sponsored by Dayco.

oil-coolant-hoses-video-featured
Diagnosing Intelligent Cooling Systems

The majority of cooling systems on the roads react to what is happening inside the combustion chamber. After the engine is stressed, the heat causes the thermostat to open. Increases in temperatures will also cause the cooling fans to come on. The heat carried by the coolant is the trigger for operation of the fans and thermostat.

Modern Cooling System Design: It’s Not About Temperature; It’s About Powertrain

Given the advanced state of internal combustion engine technology, some recent cooling system innovations will actually increase engine torque and fuel economy while reducing exhaust emissions. Let me simplify that idea: new cooling system technology will make engines run better and cleaner. So, let’s get on the same page by reviewing some basics.

Other Posts

Why Does Engine Coolant Need Replacement?

Two specifications can be used to justify replacement — the condition of the additive package & the freezing point.

Improving Turbocharger Longevity

It is estimated that by 2022, 50% or more of vehicles sold in the U.S. will have one or more turbochargers under the hood.

Engine Cooling System: Hose Inspection and Replacement

One bad hose can cause an engine malfunction. This video is sponsored by Continental.

VIDEO: Power Steering Systems That You Might Encounter

There are three types of power-steering systems today. This video is sponsored by The Group Training Academy.