Volkswagen: Intermittent clutch problem, mk3 golf, clutch cable

Question
Hi, I hope you can advise on this! I have a 1994 Mk3 Golf CL 1.4 which is in generally very nice condition, but.... from time to time (maybe every ten miles, maybe more, maybe less!) the effective action of the (cable operated) clutch pedal goes almost to the floor, making gear-changing a bit interesting to say the least. It quickly recovers, however, three or four operations usually restoring it. Everything looks OK in the engine-room, so I'm at something of a loss! Any ideas please?? They will be much appreciated!

Answer
Hi Fil,

Seems kind of strange, agreed.  However, if it is definately cable-operated, here is the fix:

1) The clutch cable will connect to the transmission on a clutch operating lever.  (It is like an arm, with an adjusting screw through it.)

2) Check the freeplay on this arm, it should be pretty taught.

3) If it is loose, tighten up the adjusting nut so the cable is taught, and than, turn it 5 more times clockwise.

4) If it is already taught, tighten up the adjusting nut 5 turns clockwise.

5) If no improvement, try 3-5 more turns.

This should do the trick, if you continue to experience problems, it sounds like the clutch is worn out, and will need to be replaced.

Let me know how you make out, sorry for the confusion!

Ron