problem with clutch

[christian9]

Hi, guys. I am brand new to the forum-- just purchased a 2000 4runner SR5 manual transmission 4x4 with 70000 miles on it.
I drove it home yesterday and today (about 500 miles) and things were initially fine, but I have noticed a problem with the clutch starting just today. I am not very mechanical but I will try to describe-- The clutch is pretty stiff. When I push it to the floor, sometimes it sticks in the depressed position. I can pull it up with my foot (or a strap that I tied to it). If I leave it down with the transmission in gear (I tried with first and second), it is as though I am letting the clutch out without actually letting it out, and it isn't getting gas so lurches and stalls. When this happens, it is very tough to get the transmission to switch gears again.
Before I bought the vehicle, the po had an inspection done and the timing chain/ tuneup done. The transmission and clutch checked out ok by the dealer.... I saw the paperwork.
Is this a problem with the master/ slave cylinders? I know nothing about engines.... is it a difficult fix? How much do you think something like this should cost at a mechanic? any advice would be appreciated-- thanks!

 

[02runner4]

Did you purchase the vehicle from a dealer? if so, then they should at least provide 30days/1000miles warranty.

Have you checked clutch fluid level?

 

[christian9]

if the clutch fluid is the reservoir close to the brake fluid, it is in range....
purchased from a private seller. thx.

 

[Stick Figure]

look up under the dash where the clutch pedal pushes on the rod and see if it looks wet, if its wet the clutch master cylinder is starting to leak, if not it could be the clutch slave cylinder, but to see that you would have to get under the truck.

 

[christian9]

Thanks for the help-- doesn't look wet to me-- so maybe the slave?

 

[Stick Figure]

Thanks for the help-- doesn't look wet to me-- so maybe the slave?

could be .... if you are going to get under it to check the slave cylinder, take a wrench and a friend w/ you so you can bleed the system while you are under it.

 

[drmorbius]

Hi, guys. I am brand new to the forum-- just purchased a 2000 4runner SR5 manual transmission 4x4 with 70000 miles on it.
I drove it home yesterday and today (about 500 miles) and things were initially fine, but I have noticed a problem with the clutch starting just today. I am not very mechanical but I will try to describe-- The clutch is pretty stiff. When I push it to the floor, sometimes it sticks in the depressed position. I can pull it up with my foot (or a strap that I tied to it). If I leave it down with the transmission in gear (I tried with first and second), it is as though I am letting the clutch out without actually letting it out, and it isn't getting gas so lurches and stalls. When this happens, it is very tough to get the transmission to switch gears again.
Before I bought the vehicle, the po had an inspection done and the timing chain/ tuneup done. The transmission and clutch checked out ok by the dealer.... I saw the paperwork.
Is this a problem with the master/ slave cylinders? I know nothing about engines.... is it a difficult fix? How much do you think something like this should cost at a mechanic? any advice would be appreciated-- thanks!

I'm wondering if you might be missing a clutch pedal return spring.

 

[christian9]

quick update-- it was the clutch master cylinder; had it replaced and now back in business. thanks for the help.