A Guide to the 1990-1998 Eagle Talon Clutch Slave Cylinder
Don't let a failing clutch slave cylinder keep your Talon off the road; understand the symptoms, brands, and replacement process.
- Common failure symptoms include a spongy pedal, difficulty shifting, and visible fluid leaks.
- It is strongly recommended to replace the master cylinder and slave cylinder at the same time.
- For best results, choose OEM-quality aftermarket brands like Exedy, LuK, Sachs, or Aisin.
- The job is DIY-friendly, but properly bleeding the system of air after installation is crucial for clutch function.
Symptoms of a Failing Clutch Slave Cylinder
A bad clutch slave cylinder will give you clear signs that something is wrong. Ignoring them can leave you stranded. The most common issue is a change in how the clutch pedal feels. It might feel soft, spongy, or go all the way to the floor with little resistance. 🎬 Watch this video to diagnose common clutch hydraulic symptoms. This happens when air gets into the hydraulic system through failing seals or when fluid leaks out.
You may also find it difficult to shift gears, especially from a stop. This is because the failing cylinder isn't creating enough force to fully disengage the clutch. Grinding noises when you try to shift are a common result. Another obvious sign is a fluid leak. Look for brake fluid (which is what the clutch hydraulic system uses) on the ground under the transmission area or on the slave cylinder itself. If the fluid in the clutch reservoir is low or looks dark and contaminated, it's a strong sign that the seals in the slave or master cylinder are wearing out.
Can I Still Drive?
Driving with a failing clutch slave cylinder is not recommended. In the early stages, you might have difficulty shifting, but as the problem worsens, you will lose the ability to disengage the clutch entirely. This will make it impossible to shift gears, leaving you unable to drive the car.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
For a 1990-1998 Eagle Talon, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts can be difficult to find and expensive. Aftermarket parts are a practical and popular choice. However, quality can vary between brands. Based on owner discussions in DSM (Diamond-Star Motors) forums, there's a general consensus on brand quality.
Brand Tiers for Your Talon
- Premium/OEM-Quality (Exedy, LuK, Sachs, Aisin): These brands are often original suppliers to vehicle manufacturers and are highly regarded for their quality and reliability. Many experienced DSM owners recommend sticking with these brands to avoid premature failure, even though they may cost slightly more than budget options. Exedy, in particular, is a well-known name in the DSM community.
- Standard Aftermarket (Beck Arnley, Dorman): These brands offer a balance of affordability and acceptable quality. Dorman parts are widely available and designed to match the original's fit and function. However, quality can sometimes be inconsistent, with some owners reporting success while others experience early failures. These are a viable option if budget is a primary concern.
- Budget (Generic "Replacement" brands): These are the most affordable options but come with the highest risk of poor quality and short lifespan. For a critical component like a clutch slave cylinder, saving a few dollars here might lead to another repair job sooner than you'd like.
A Note on OEM vs. Aftermarket for DSMs
Many long-time DSM owners argue that for clutch hydraulics, OEM is the most reliable choice. Some aftermarket cylinders have been found to have slightly different internal dimensions, which can lead to disengagement problems, especially with high-performance clutches. If you can find a new OEM part or a reliable OEM-supplier brand like Aisin, it's often considered the safest bet.
Cost of Replacement
The cost to replace a clutch slave cylinder on a 1990-1998 Eagle Talon is relatively low, especially if you do the work yourself.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Slave Cylinder | $10.13 - $53.43 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I replace the clutch master cylinder at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The master and slave cylinders are part of the same hydraulic system and typically wear out at a similar rate. If one has failed, the other may not be far behind. Replacing both at the same time saves you from having to bleed the system twice and prevents a potential second failure shortly after the first repair.
Is this a difficult DIY job?
For a mechanically inclined owner, replacing the slave cylinder is a straightforward job. It is externally mounted on the transmission and usually held on by two bolts. 🎬 See how to replace a slave cylinder on a DSM. The most critical part of the job is properly bleeding the air out of the hydraulic system after installation. 🎬 Learn the proper way to replace and bleed your cylinder. Difficulty is low, and it can typically be done in under an hour.
Are there any recalls for the clutch slave cylinder?
A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database shows no recalls specifically for the clutch slave cylinder on the 1990-1998 Eagle Talon. There was a recall for automatic transmission transfer cases on some 1998 models, but this is unrelated to the manual transmission's clutch system.
What kind of fluid do I use?
The clutch hydraulic system uses standard DOT 3 brake fluid. When replacing the slave cylinder, it's a good idea to flush the entire system with new, clean fluid, especially if the old fluid is dark or discolored.
Helpful Videos
![How to replace a clutch slave cylinder on a FWD car [ 3000gt , Dodge stealth , Lancer Evo or DSM ]](https://img.youtube.com/vi/CTiGNyE-a9k/mqdefault.jpg)
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MD749823 MD749822 MD742158 MD742157 MD740318
Bore Size: 13/16 inch. Uses DOT 3 brake fluid.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Eagle Talon: