Mini clutch question

[bjm38]

Hi all,

Bought a 1990 Mini City for my daughter to learn to drive in - it's only taken four days for things to go wrong:

After 25 years driving I've had my first-ever breakdown where I've had to be recovered. Mini broke down - I *think* it's the clutch slave cylinder but I'm not certain. On the way down to Halfords, the clutch pedal seemed a little stiff and I said to my daughter that she might find the clutch a bit heavy...anyways, came out of Halfords and the clutch pedal's rock hard, won't move more than a fraction of an inch. The gearstick was left in 1st gear, as per usual when parked, but the engine starts freely, showing that the clutch is disengaged - the pedal's at the top of its travel. Trouble is, does the problem lie within the clutch hydraulic circuit or is there something within the clutch housing?

TIA

[bjm38]

Sorted - with the liberal use of WD40 and the judicious use of a big manhole key!! The car had stood idle for the past year and the linkages on the slave cylinder just wanted a bit of lube.

[bmcecosse]

Yes - that's common - the pivot point for the clutch arm (nothing to do with the slave) seizes up. Treat it to some REAL oil now - to keep it moving freely now. BTW - best place for Mini Qs is 'theminiforum' - see you there! Or of course PM me if something urgent. Roy

[bjm38]

Cheers Roy,

I've just signed up for theminiforum. If I get half the welcome and assistance there that I've had on MMOC over the past 12 months then I know I won't go wrong. The Mini's not had the best of starts, but I feel she's got the same basic genes as the Morris so I'm not *too* worried!

BTW, the Morris isn't going anywheres.

Bernard

[bmcecosse]

They are a rude lot over on theminiforum......no holds barred there! Don't expect the 'molly coddling' you get here!