How do you fix the clutch pedal in a 1994 geo prizm if it is incredibly loose and will not go into gear?

Answer 1

clutchIt is most likely the clutch itself that is the problem and not the pedal, its probably time to replace it. When the clutch becomes worn to the point where it is no good any more you wont have enough pedal travel to disengage it. clutch master cylinder and clutch slave cylinderThe clutch master cylinder bolts to the firewall next to the brake master cylinder and provides hydraulic pressure to operate the clutch. If the fluid level in its reservoir is extremely low it will cause the clutch pedal to flop about with no resistance due to air in the lines. The clutch slave cylinder is mounted on the transaxle housing and operates the clutch arm. One of the two are leaking.

Refill the clutch master cylinder reservoir with brake fluid and bleed the air out of the system by having a capable assistant pump the clutch pedal a few times then hold the pedal to the floor. With the pedal on the floor, crack open the bleeder screw open to allow the air/fluid to spew out and retighten the screw. Repeat the process of pumping the pedal and holding it on the floor and opening the bleeder screw. When this operation yields only brake fluid (no air) you have bled the air from the system.

Note that the first few times you do this you probably will get more air than fluid. Pedal pressure will increase as the air is dispelled. Keep an eye on the fluid level in the reservoir. As the air is displaced with fluid the level in the reservoir drops. If the level drops below the inlet port you have to start the bleeding process from the beginning.

These master and slave cylinders fail from time to time and are available from your local parts store.

Good luck.