Nissan Repair: 1993 300ZX Clutch Travel, 300zx coupe, clutch pedal

Question
I have a 1993 NA 300ZX coupe w/manual transmission.

Today, instead of traveling the normal ~1" before disengaging the clutch, I found the clutch pedal had to be depressed almost entirely to the floor before disengaging. It is almost to the point where I cannot change gears. Are there adjustments I can make to change the amount of free travel in the clutch pedal? I think that the brake system (master cylinder maybe) might have a small leak, because it requires more fluid about every three months, but the last time I added more was about five weeks ago. I am not sure if this makes any difference. Thanks a lot for any help.

-Mike

Answer
Mike,

I would bet the clutch is worn out.  But, since you say that you have to add fluid I would first bleed the clutch and see if this helps.  You can jack up the car and the slave cylinder for the clutch is located on the bellhousing.  I bet the slave cylinder is leaking down ever so slowly and that is where the fluid is going.  Use Ford high Performance Brake Fluid and the pedal feel will be excellent.  This is DOT3 so it works with the car and it is not synthetic.  Costs about $5 bucks a pint from a Ford Dealer.  Highest boiling point fluid I have found and the feel is excellent.  If the slave is not leakaking and you bleed the system and the pedal release/disengagement point is still close to the floor the clutch will have to be replaced.  Email me back and let me know what you find.