Clutch rod riddle

[Dalee]

Hello all. Proud owner of a 97 plain Jane xlt, 2.3 5 speed. I need to bench bleed the clutch master cylinder and I can't see how to disconnect the push rod from the clutch pedal without breaking something. I would greatly appreciate any assistance.

 

[pjtoledo]

Removing piston rod from clutch | The Ranger Station
there is a black plastic clip that holds the rod on the pivot shaft/stub.
with some luck you can pry the 2 tabs up without breaking them.
or risk it and just pull it off.
get a source for a new one first.

 

[Dalee]

Thank you for your answer. That makes perfect sense. I'll get a new clip first, then it won't matter what I do to the other one. I really love my truck, and this is one of the few things I've found that are of poor design. Although it is great when working as it should, no system should have to be removed from such an awkward location in order to bleed it. Thanks again, greatly appreciate the help.

 

[RobbieD]

The first clutch I did on a Ranger I didn't know any better.

I ended up getting it bled somewhat in place by unclipping the rod, unmounting the master cylinder, and bleeding the system by hand through the removed removed driver's fender splash guard.

 

[Dalee]

Thanks! This same thought crossed my mind, but after all the aggravation leading up to this, I am really over anything being easy. I think it's just a poor design. Thank you!

 

[RobbieD]

The design could have been better, but it is what it is. Being over the "easy" part is half the battle.

For the small parts I needed on my 1990 through 1994 trucks, the rod retainer clip was Dorman 74041, and a complete pedal bushing kit was Dorman 14041, and I think it took two of those. Your truck being later, you'll need to confirm part numbers. You might only need the rod clip; I rebuilt the whole pedal assembly. Dorman quality may be hit or miss, but on the small hard-to-find parts they're sometimes the only aftermarket option.

Once the fender's splash guard is out, you can tilt the dismounted master cylinder so that the trapped air pocket gets blown out when you push in on the piston. It'll be stiff, so be careful pushing on the rod.

Good luck!

Dorman 74041

 

[Dalee]

Thank you! That's the picture and part number of exactly what I need. This makes it so much easier to locate a new one. Thank you!

 

[ZMan]

you can get the air of the master without removing it from the truck. The best way that I've found to do it, is to remove the rod from the master and immediately put it back in. There is a snap ring that holds it in. Fluid will splash out so be sure to cover up, or pull back your carpet. Also, if you're real careful you can get the rod off of the pedal using a pick and pocket screwdiver to manipulate the plastic clip.

 

[Dalee]

Thanks! That makes sense, as the air is at the top. I was able to get another clip at O'Reilly's. I will try to get it off as you suggest and if it doesn't break I'll have a spare. Much appreciated.