Clutch Filler Pipe Fitting?

[PaulTWinterton]

This is my first time replacing a clutch master cylinder. It was leaking into the pedal box.

MC is dangling out the bottom of the car as I removed my pedal box for re&re.

How do I remove and replace the filler pipe on top of the MC?

Brute force? I've looked at the RealOEM pictures and it looks like a rubber grommet is on the outside of the pipe and they are jammed into the rubber opening on the top of the MC. Right?

I don't want to yank on it, or dig it out, and learn later I screwed it up.

Thanks for reading and replying.

[Mike Self]

rubber grommet on the clutch M/C? The replacement one is plastic and is easier to handle even though it isn't "original."

But regardless, they both just press into the M/C grommet, just like the little plastic nipples do on the brake M/C. It usually takes quite a bit of force.

The easy way to do this is to press the pipe into the clutch M/C before installing it on the car, then thread it down into position from above. Forcing that metal pipe into the grommet with the clutch M/C in place is VERY difficult.

Another trick: before installing the M/C, make sure you can get a socket onto the mounting nut. If it won't fit due to interference with the cylinder casting, grind a little bit off the casting 'till it fits. Makes running the nut up much easier than if you have to use a stubby open end wrench...

cheers

mike

[PaulTWinterton]

Thanks Mike, I kinda figured it would be easier to assemble and then install. It seems unusual to have a rubber pressure-fit assembly, but hey German technology.

I was undecided whether to install from above or below, but you answered that.

That upper mounting bolt (MC) was a little tough to get at, but after removing the accelerator lever I could fit a box end wrench without problem. We'll see if the new piece is the same.

Thanks again.

[PaulTWinterton]

Sorry Mike, missed your first question.

My clutch hydraulics are all 40 yo, so I presume it's rubber.

I have left the MC et al, hanging below the car until I'm ready to replace, so I haven't pulled it apart yet. Visibly the MC grommet is rubber with the pipe inserted inside.

Pedal box is first and then I'll work on the MC and SC. Looking forward to cleaning up this area, as it is the last gooey, slimey, dirty, oily area left in the car.

[M3M3]

this press fit pipe and the two press fit elbows into the mc are precisely why i never use more than 15psi with a pressure bleeder on these cars.

ps - on the later model 02's that filler pipe is plastic...

[PaulTWinterton]

Good to know. Pressure bleeder. 15psi.

I realize now that this is simply a feeder system, not under high pressure.

Therefore the rubber "stopper" technology.

Thanks all for the knowledge.