Hey guys,
So this morning I went to jump in my new-to-me 2004, and the clutch had free play all the way to the foor so that I can't get the shifter in gear. I'm stuck at work but had my wife check the clutch fluid reservoir and apparently it's way low. Very below the min line. Could this be the reason for my problem? Can I just top it off with some DOT 3 and maybe it will resolve the issue? I know there are probably many possibilities here so I appreciate your guys' insight.

 

Id definitely bleed the clutch master cylinder and not just top it off. There is a good DIY on here for this.

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/s2000-br...method-993927/

Hope it helps.

 

That's not freeplay. That's just lack if hydraulic pressure.

Topping it off *might* allow enough fluid to work its way into the system and get you home. But...maybe not.

You will need to bleed the clutch hydraulics completely and thoroughly to resolve the issue.

THEN set freeplay mechanically as needed.

Where is it leaking? The usual spot, near the pedal/firewall junction? Or is there some external leak that needs to be fixed first?

 

What you describe is not usually described as "free play." When folks speak of clutch free play they are generally referencing the distance the pedal travels before making contact with the clutch mechanism. Free play is adjustable and there is a good video and a thread or two here on that adjustment. Something to do after you sort out what is going on with your clutch. Sounds like you might have a leak in your system somewhere.

 

Thanks for the link!!! Been watching youtube videos on it all morning but I'll definitely check out that DIY

 

Copy that, I'll do the full bleed procedure to avoid any more problems. You know I don't know where it's leaking I'll have to get it on jackstands this evening when I get home from work to check it out. But thanks for the tip on the usual suspect I'm brand new to this platform so little tidbits like that are very helpful.

 

Thank you and sorry for the terminology slip. I'm bummed to have an issue like this rear it's head just a couple days after buying it, but I'm determined to do whatever it takes to dial things in.

 

Can I use any DOT 3 clutch fluid, or will anything other than Honda stuff be ill advised?

 

From everything I've read on this site, as long as it's DOT3 you're fine. It's all about making sure the lines are free of air and that the fluid's clean.

 

One of the most common places to check to see if the CMC is going bad is if you see a sludgy build up from inside the cabin by the clutch pedal. If it is leaking, you will need to replace it sooner rather than later.