Clutch release hydraulic drive — bleeding (Opel Zafira A)

Bleeding should be performed after any repair of the clutch hydraulic drive that resulted in a breach of its tightness, as well as when removing the gearbox. It is impossible for air to enter the system without breaching the tightness of the system or draining the master cylinder reservoir to an unacceptable level. Therefore, if air enters the clutch release hydraulic drive during normal operation, it is necessary to check the hydraulic drive for leaks (see "Clutch - checking technical condition").

To complete the work you will need:

• clear vinyl tube of suitable diameter;
• brake fluid drain container;
• clean brake fluid (see "Reference data");
• special key for fittings or a 10 mm key.

We perform the work with an assistant.

Sequence of execution

1. Prepare the car for work (see "Preparing the car for maintenance and repair").

Warning! To prevent air from entering the brake hydraulics and disengaging the clutch during bleeding, make sure that the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir does not fall below the MIN mark.

2. Remove the protective cap from the bleed nipple of the clutch hydraulic drive.



3. Connect the rubber tube to the bleed nipple.





4. Place the other end of the tube in a transparent container partially filled with brake fluid.

5. Ask the assistant to slowly press the clutch pedal several times and hold the pedal in the pressed position after the last press.

6. Using an 11 mm wrench, slightly unscrew the rolling nipple so that the liquid begins to come out of the tube, while the assistant continues to press the pedal.

7. After the brake fluid stops coming out of the tube, tighten the fitting.

Warning! Do not forget to periodically check the brake fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir.

8. Repeat the steps described in points 5-7 until the brake fluid with air bubbles stops escaping from the bleed nipple, after which we finally tighten the nipple.

Note: When replacing the brake fluid, continue bleeding until fresh brake fluid starts to come out of the bleed nipple (lighter). If after five or six repetitions air continues to come out of the tube and the number of air bubbles does not decrease, the system is not airtight! It is necessary to check the tightness of the system (see "Clutch - checking technical condition").

9. Remove the rubber tube from the fitting and put a protective cap on the fitting.