Clutch bleeding

Introduction

While all Mk I Mondeos (except for maybe some of the very latest ones prior to the Mk II release) have a mechanical clutch assembly, Mk II and onwards are hydraulic. If you've at any point disconnected the clutch hydraulics, this needs bleeding, in order to get the air out of the system.

Tools

• A one-man brake/clutch bleeding kit, like Mityvac, Vacula, or Gunson Ezibleed.

These instructions are based on experience with Ezibleed, which is commonly sold at Halfords.

• A slightly overpressured spare tyre.

Testing the kit

Test the kit if you haven't done that already, as you want to know that it can handle the pressure:

• Make sure the bottle is tight, and connect the black hose to the tyre valve.
• Pinch the clear hose tight, and open the flip valve. Wait one minute. If the container stays tight, it should handle the pressure.

Method

1. Bring the spare tyre out, and put it down in front of the car
2. Pop the hood, and locate the following components:
   • Brake fluid reservoir
   • Clutch bleeder valve
3. Fill the bottle in the kit with clean brake fluid, DOT4, and screw its cap on.
4. Assemble the clear hose with the cap from the kit that fits the Mondeo's reservoir
5. Connect the black hose to the spare tyre
6. In the kit, there's another clear hose. Undo the cap on the clutch bleeder valve, and connect that hose to it.
7. Use an old plastic container, like a bottle or an ice cream tub to collect the drained fluid.
8. Hold the bottle upside down, and open the valve.

WORK IN PROGRESS

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