If the clutch master cylinder fails to function properly, you will not be able to shift gears. This could leave you stranded on the side of the road. The clutch master cylinder is used to transfer the movement of the clutch pedal to the clutch through the use of brake fluid. Using a few simple hand tools and a helper, this repair can be completed in around one hour. Doing it yourself can save a lot of money compared to what it would cost to have a repair shop do it for you.
Place rags under the clutch master cylinder, which is located on the firewall next to the driver's-side strut tower.
Use the wrench to loosen the brake line that goes into the side of the clutch master cylinder. Remove the brake line and gently pull it back.
Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove the cotter pin that attaches the clutch master cylinder rod to the clutch pedal. It is located about half-way up the clutch pedal. Remove the clevis pin that runs through the clutch pedal to free the clutch rod.
Using the ratchet, extension and socket, remove the nuts that hold the clutch master cylinder to the firewall. Slide the master cylinder out of the firewall.
Slide the new master cylinder onto the bolts on the firewall. Line the bracket on the rod up with the hole in the clutch pedal and insert the clevis pin. Insert the cotter pin into the clevis pin.
Insert the brake line into the clutch master cylinder and start the flare nut by hand. Tighten the line with the wrench.
Install the nuts that hold the master cylinder to the firewall and tighten them.
Add brake fluid to the master cylinder until it reaches the "Full" mark. Have your helper sit in the car and pump them clutch pedal about 10 times.
With your helper holding the clutch pedal to the floor, loosen the brake line. When the fluid stops running out, tighten the line and have your helper pump the pedal again. Repeat this until no more air is released from the line.
