Blocked clutch bleed line?

[markkfletcher]

I've just replaced my clutch slave cylinder, which had failed and contaminated the clutch fluid. Clutch is working okay now - but I suspect there is still some air in it. And I can't get any clutch fluid to flow through the bleed line. Clearly the line from the master cylinder is working fine, so I suspect a blockage in the bleed line. Or even a faulty bleed line.

Does anyone have any suggestions how to clear it? Or should I just get a replacement?

Thanks.

 

[Timolgra]

How are you trying to bleed it?
Have you removed the plug with an Allen key and pushed the ball bearing in or have you replaced it with a bleed nipple identical to those on the front brake?

 

[markkfletcher]

The plug with the allen key obviously stripped. So it has been replaced with a bleed nipple.
And I am using a Vacuum brake bleeder.

 

[Timolgra]

Try cable tying the clutch lever to the bar overnight if you think there's a problem, should work until you sort it properly.

 

[fatnfast]

Raise the bleed line above the slave cylinder (tyrap it to the footrest loop). Plenty of rags to protect the paintwork. Remove the bleed nipple totally. Fluid should start to flow and dribble out of the bleed line. If it does, then the bleed nipples blocked. If it does not gently squeeze the clutch lever to assist it, but watch out for spurts of fluid.
If this solves the blockage, put the nipple back in and bleed with your vacuum tool.

 

[fizzer]

dont forget when you put the bleed nipple in ,you then have to turn it out one turn so you can bleed it

 

[markkfletcher]

Thanks for the tips. Still not managed to get any brake fluid to flow though. I've tried sliding a thin piece of wire up through the tube, but it doesn't get more than 1 or 2mm in - and it's too thin to take any pressure without bending.