Help! 1996 Slave and Master Cylinder Replacement Costs?

[barkart]

Hi. Thanks for taking the time to review my post. I've just come into the Chicago winter, and the clutch on my 1996, 41 K , LT4 Collector's Edition is on the floor. Upon towing to the dealer, he states the slave and master cylinder are out. (I agree that there is no pressure in the clutch, seems consistent.) In addition, my "Service Engine Soon" light is out, and has been for awhile (3 weeks), and two "sensors" need to be replaced. Upon stating this, he lets me know that my aftermarket warranty will cover none of these repairs (supposed to be comprehensive, and cover everthing except "maintenance" items), and that the total to replace them all is $1300. Seems a bit steep to me, but maybe I'm just ignorant to the inherent costs of Corvette Ownership. The vette is at "Z Frank" Chevrolet, at 6000 N Western. If anyone could help and give me an idea as if this pricing is in line, prior experiences at this dealership, etc etc...Looking to gather all of my information before I give my go ahead. All responses are GREATLY appreciated. Thanks so much!

Todd

 

[EricVonHa]

Your clutch hydraulics just doesn't "go out". For such a new model year car-- it is highly highly unlikely that there is a seal problem in either master or slave. More than likely, the system needs to be "bled". This takes all of 10 minutes.

My advice is to get it outta wherever it currently is. Before anyone can give you an estimate-- there are some inherent things that can be checked on the clutch hydraulics. More than likely, it does not show any visible signs of leaking fluid. So, that being the case-- bleed the air out-- and take it from there. If they say they are going to replace all that stuff without 1st diagnosing a damn thing, it's time for a real opinion. -E

 

[barkart]

Thanks!

Eric,

Thanks so much! There had been some fluid leak on my drive, but I'm not terribly mechanically inclined obviously. I'm gonna try and gather info for a reputable "vette" shop in Chicago. Thanks so much!

Todd

 

[barkart]

Gathering Data...

Any input greatly appreciated as I'm trying to figure out a reasonable solution to tow my car back away to a reputable dealer if necessary..>Looking in the Chicago area. Thanks!

Todd

 

[Jeffvette]

Get it out of the dealership first of all. Get the modified slave from Rippie. www.dougrippie.com it's under the driveline section. Call superior chevrolet and talk to Chris May @ (800)728-8267, he'll hook you up on a good price for the MC.


Second, yank your car out of the place it currently resides. They are taking you for the ride of your life. My recomendation for a shop for you is Marc Haibeck. He should be able to get you taken care of. http://www.zr1specialist.com/index.htm

Good luck.

 

[barkart]

Jeff, Thank you so much. I will call each of those places in the morning and keep you guys updated! MUCH APPRECIATED!

Todd

 

[Jeffvette]

Any update Todd?

 

[Ken]

If you're mechanically inclined to do so, here is an article I stumbled upon, from Corvette Fever magazine: Replacing a Hydraulic C4 Clutch System.