Many automotive vehicles today are offered in automatic transmission, for they are much easier to drive. On the other hand, motorists who want variety in revs and are fuel economy-conscious opt for manual trannies. Both types of transmissions have much similarities, except that in manual trannies, changing the gears is done manually by engaging and disengaging it through the clutch pedal. When launching new car models, car companies like Mazda, often give car buyers an option to choose between a manual and an automatic transmission vehicle model.
One the components common between a manual and automatic clutch is the Mazda clutch master cylinder, which works by shifting clutch pedal pressure to release the clutch. The clutch master cylinder is a mechanism that forces hydraulic fluid into a pipe, and through the clutch slave cylinder. It is located on the firewall, typically next to the brake master cylinder.
The Mazda clutch master cylinder has two reservoirs of fluid: two pistons and two or more circuits called brake lines. When a brake pedal is depressed, pressure is created inside the reservoirs by the main piston's movement. This pressure, together with the secondary piston, compresses the fluid evenly through each circuit and into the brake calipers. During this process, engine vacuum is mostly utilized to help apply pressure to the system. In case the brake line fails, the plan B is for the Mazda master cylinder to redirect hydraulic pressure to the remaining lines, thus avoiding catastrophic brake failure.
A failing Mazda clutch master cylinder can be detected by resting a foot on the clutch pedal. If the pedal goes slowly to the floor, professional checkup is immediately needed. In case a replacement is recommended, it is a good idea to also get a clutch slave cylinder at the same time, as both units usually fail around the same time. It is also advised to always flush the clutch hydraulic system every time the brakes are flushed. Failing to flush out the fluid from the clutch hydraulic system may cause rust to build up in the clutch system, resulting eventually to clutch master cylinder failure and ultimately, an unusable gear.
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Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.
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