MG Car Repair: New Clutch Slave Cylinder, clutch slave cylinder, clutch pedal

Question
I purchased a new clutch slave cylinder for my 79 MGB.  I connected the hose and mounted it on the car.  However, I can't push the piston in to line it up for connection.  I already added fluid and bled the lines.  Do I force the piston in?  How Hard?  Do I drain the fluid?  It is a brand new Wagner Cylinder, and I don't want to damage it?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Ernie,
The slave cylinder has a large piston and even if the system is correct and the opening is clear all the way into the reservoir, the slave piston is very difficult to force in.

First be sure the reservoir is only about half full and the clutch pedal is all the way back. Then force the slave piston in with what ever force is necessary because that is how the system operates anyway.

If the slave cylinder piston will not go in, then you have something wrong anyway. When the clutch pedal is back, there is a clear and open path for the fluid to go back into the reservoir. (loosen the reservoir cap just in case the vent hole in the cap is not open)

Howard