After replacing shifter cables transmission will not shift if car is running

Tiny
TDELL60
  • MEMBER
  • 2011 CHEVROLET CRUZE
  • 1.8L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 14,836 MILES
I replaced shifter cables then adjusted the shifter. I can shift while car is not running but can't shift while car is running.
Monday, November 16th, 2020 AT 3:50 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,186 POSTS
Hi,

That tells me the clutch isn't releasing. Have you checked to make sure the clutch master cylinder is full of fluid? I believe this one uses brake fluid from the brake master cylinder.

See pic 1. Let me know if it is low. Also, let me know if the clutch pedal feels normal.

Joe
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Monday, November 16th, 2020 AT 4:05 PM
Tiny
TDELL60
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Yes, I did check it and it does need some. Also I did replace the master cylinder reservoir line, at that time the clutch was on the floor after replacing the line I had to bleed the clutch to get it back up. That is the tricky part the clutch is up.
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Monday, November 16th, 2020 AT 4:31 PM
Tiny
TDELL60
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Also, I am a diesel tech.
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Monday, November 16th, 2020 AT 4:34 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,186 POSTS
Hi,

Diesel is something I never learned too much about. Only enough to be dangerous. LOL As far as the clutch, I'm not sure how you bled it, but take a look through this and let me know if it is what was done.

___________________________________

2011 Chevrolet Cruze L4-1.8L
Procedures
Vehicle Transmission and Drivetrain Clutch Clutch Hydraulic System Service and Repair Procedures
PROCEDURES
Hydraulic Clutch System Bleeding

Caution: Brake fluid will damage electrical connections and painted surfaces. Use shop cloths, suitable containers, and fender covers to prevent brake fluid from contacting these areas. Always re-seal and wipe off brake fluid containers to prevent spills.

Caution: Do not reuse the fluid that has been bled from a system in order to fill the clutch master cylinder reservoir for the following reasons:

* The fluid may be aerated
* The fluid may be contaminated
* The fluid may contain too much moisture

1. Verify that all the lines and fittings are dry and secure.
2. Clean the dirt and grease from the reservoir cap in order to ensure that no foreign substances enter the system.
3. Remove the reservoir cap.

Warning

Use only Delco Supreme 11, GM P/N 12377967 (Canadian P/N 992667), or equivalent DOT 3 brake fluid from a clean, sealed container. Do not use fluid from an open container that may be contaminated with water. Improper or contaminated fluid could result in damage to components, or loss of braking, with possible injury.

4. Fill the reservoir to the proper level with DOT 3 fluid.
Some manual transmission equipped vehicles have a combined brake and clutch fluid reservoir.
5. Attach a brake bleeder.
6. Place and hold the adapter on the reservoir filler neck to ensure a tight fit. In some cases, the adapter will fit into the reservoir opening.
7. Apply a vacuum of 51-68 kPa (15-20 hg) on the gauge.
8. Hold vacuum for approximately 1 minute.
9. Slowly relieve vacuum and remove the brake bleeder from the reservoir.
10. Refill the reservoir to the proper level.
11. Repeat steps 6 and 7.
12. If needed, refill the reservoir and continue to pull a vacuum until no more bubbles can be seen in the reservoir or until the fluid level no longer drops.
13. Pump the clutch pedal until firm (to refill clutch actuator cylinder).
14. Add additional fluid if needed.
15. Test drive the vehicle to ensure proper operation.

________________________________

Let me know.

Joe
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Monday, November 16th, 2020 AT 8:21 PM
Tiny
TDELL60
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I did re-use and use two different type dot 3 and 4 I used what I had on hand. There was obviously something wrong because I did find brake fluid in the trunk, plus shift and cables had blue marks on them indicating that they had been replaced. Car just stop shifting one day that morning I found clutch going to the floor before it would engage. The I found shifter cable had pop off that is why I replaced them. I assumed it was the clutch but after thinking about it I know clutches don't just go out that is when I found the leak in the reservoir line. I replaced it now it will only shift when car is off. I will bleed system again and let you know.
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Tuesday, November 17th, 2020 AT 8:03 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,186 POSTS
Hi,

It sounds like a plan. Let me know how it turns out for you.

Take care,
Joe
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Tuesday, November 17th, 2020 AT 9:22 PM
Tiny
TDELL60
  • MEMBER
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Just got to changing clutch fluid tested it and still will not go into gear while the car is running. Is there anything else other then replacing the clutch?
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Saturday, November 28th, 2020 AT 8:45 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,186 POSTS
Hi,

I came across a service bulletin related to a leak in the line to the actuator (slave). If you look at the attached pics, you will see the seal that is the issue. It could be a pressure loss in this case. Did you notice any leaks? Also, If you start the vehicle while holding the clutch and in gear, does it release normally?

I have to be honest, I don't think it is a bad clutch (it could be). Since it's not allowing you to shift only when the engine is running, I suspect it is related to either the clutch MC or the clutch actuator (slave cylinder).

Take a look at the attached pics. Check the seal shown to make sure there is nothing leaking.

____________

Let me know.
Joe
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Saturday, November 28th, 2020 AT 7:55 PM
Tiny
TDELL60
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Okay, will do.
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Sunday, November 29th, 2020 AT 6:26 AM

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