I didn't like the engagement point on the clutch, (engaged near the floor), so I adjusted the pedal for a more "halfway" engagement. I still had 1/8" to 1/4" of play on the pedal.

Made a huge difference in comfort. Loved it. Until later in the evening, after driving on the highway for maybe 15 minutes, I put my foot down. Dropped down to 5th, floored it, and it red lined.. without going anywhere. The car smelled of burnt clutch and confusion. The clutch pedal free play is now completely gone, pedal is stiff, and my clutch slips as if it has 200,000 miles on it, (it has less than 3,000).

I'm curious if anyone has encountered a slipping clutch due to a bad master cylinder or pedal adjustment? I've already ordered a new master and fluid, but would like to know the possibility of the master causing this, or if it's a coincidence that my clutch gave out at the same time?

 

There is only one correct setting for the clutch rod. Trying to adjust pedal height will only result in two outcomes, a slipping clutch or grinding gears.

Yours is over adjusted, causing clutch slip. Find the clutch freeplay DIY video by member Soviet, and the car will be perfect.

The chances are near 95% that you dont need a clutch master. Keep the fluid clean, the leak will stop, guaranteed.

 

I actually referenced that video the first time I did the procedure. Initially I did tighten it too much, didn't like the high engagement, and re-adjusted it back down. I took your advice and loosened it back a little more, which gave me a bit more slop in free play. After a few minutes of driving, I felt a very faint thud in the pedal, and the rod stiffened up. Back under the dash I went, exercised the push rod, and free play came back. Fluid is clean, (I did the pump, extract, replace method), and I see no leaks. Are you sure I shouldn't replace it? Not a big deal to do so, unless there's other hidden issues that may arise after doing so?

Thanks again.