16/12/2003
Transforming Your Defender's Clutch: The Redbooster Servo Kit
Many Defender owners will attest to the substantial effort required to operate the clutch pedal. For those experiencing knee or foot pain, or simply seeking a more comfortable driving experience, particularly in stop-start traffic, a clutch servo kit can be a revelation. The Redbooster Clutch Servo kit, a popular aftermarket upgrade, aims to significantly lighten the clutch pedal, making your Defender much more user-friendly. This article will guide you through the installation process, based on a user's experience, and address common queries about this innovative product.
What is the Redbooster Servo Clutch Kit?
The Redbooster servo clutch kit is designed to alleviate the heavy clutch action often found in vehicles like the Land Rover Defender. By incorporating a servo mechanism, it effectively reduces the physical force needed to depress the clutch pedal. This not only enhances driving comfort, especially for individuals with joint issues, but also makes prolonged periods of driving or navigating busy traffic far less strenuous. The result is a noticeably lighter clutch, transforming your driving experience and making your Defender a more accessible and enjoyable vehicle to operate.
The Installation Process: A Step-by-Step Overview
The installation of the Redbooster kit is generally considered straightforward, with many users reporting successful fitting within a few hours. The kit itself arrives with comprehensive, photo-illustrated instructions, and further visual aids are available on the manufacturer's website, which can be downloaded and printed for reference. Here's a breakdown of the typical installation steps:
1. Preparation and Component Familiarisation
Upon receiving the Redbooster kit, you'll find it well-packaged and complete with all necessary brackets, hoses, and the servo unit itself. Before starting, it's advisable to lay out all components and familiarise yourself with them, comparing them against the provided instructions. This initial step ensures you have everything required and understand how each part fits into the overall system.
2. Removing the Old Clutch System Components
The installation begins with the removal of the original clutch master cylinder. Accessing this component often involves removing the top cover on the clutch pedal box. It's crucial to have a container ready to catch any residual clutch fluid that may spill during this process. The old master cylinder is carefully unbolted and removed from its position.
3. Fitting the New Mounting Bracket
The Redbooster kit includes a new mounting bracket designed to accommodate the servo. This bracket is fitted to the clutch pedal box, often where the original master cylinder was located. Careful alignment is key to ensure the linkages connect correctly to the clutch pedal assembly. The provided photos clearly show how the new bracket is positioned, offering a clear view towards the bulkhead once installed.
4. Mounting the Clutch Servo
With the new mounting bracket in place, the clutch servo unit is then attached to it. This is a critical stage, ensuring the servo is securely fastened and correctly oriented for its operation. Once mounted, the servo is ready for the connection of the hydraulic hoses.
5. Installing the Vacuum Reservoir and Hoses
The Redbooster system requires a vacuum source, typically managed by a vacuum reservoir. This reservoir and its associated hoses are usually mounted discreetly under the wing of the vehicle. The kit provides specific brackets and hoses for this purpose. Accessing the mounting location might involve removing a plastic vent cover, as shown in some user-submitted photos, providing a clear view of the installed reservoir.
6. Connecting the Hydraulic Lines
The final plumbing stage involves connecting the new hydraulic hoses. These lines will link the clutch master cylinder (which may be retained or replaced depending on the specific kit variant) to the new clutch servo and then to the slave cylinder on the gearbox. Ensuring these connections are tight and correctly routed is vital for the system's functionality and to prevent leaks.
Bleeding the Clutch System: A Common Hurdle
One of the most frequently encountered challenges during clutch servo installation is bleeding the hydraulic system. This process removes air that may have entered the lines during the installation, which would otherwise result in a spongy or ineffective clutch pedal. The standard method of pumping the pedal and opening/closing the bleed nipple on the slave cylinder doesn't always suffice, especially with a new, complex system.
As reported by one user, gravity bleeding or simple pumping proved ineffective. The solution involved using a power bleeding kit. These kits typically utilise a spare tyre to generate pressure, forcing the clutch fluid through the system. In this specific instance, an airbrush compressor running off a diving bottle was ingeniously adapted. By regulating the pressure to a controlled 20 psi, the fluid was effectively pushed through the new pipes and cylinders, successfully purging all air. This method highlights the importance of having the right tools or a creative approach when faced with stubborn airlocks.
Key takeaway for bleeding: If traditional methods fail, consider investing in or borrowing a power bleeder for a more efficient and reliable outcome.
Post-Installation Adjustments and Benefits
Once the Redbooster kit is successfully installed and the clutch system is properly bled, the difference in pedal feel is usually dramatic. The clutch pedal becomes significantly lighter, requiring minimal effort to operate. This transformation is particularly beneficial for drivers who spend a lot of time in traffic or have pre-existing physical conditions.
In some cases, the clutch pedal may become *too* light, lacking sufficient resistance. One user found it necessary to add an additional return spring to the clutch pedal to provide a more natural feel and prevent accidental engagement. This is a simple modification that can be easily addressed with readily available automotive springs.
The overall benefits include:
- Reduced leg and knee strain.
- Improved comfort during long journeys and in heavy traffic.
- Easier clutch operation for all drivers.
- A more enjoyable and less fatiguing driving experience.
Material Availability for Clutch Servos
For those looking to source clutch servos, specific part numbers are often required. For example, a clutch servo with the material number 9700518230 is noted as being available. It's always recommended to verify compatibility with your specific vehicle model before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the Redbooster Clutch Servo kit difficult to install?
While it requires some mechanical aptitude, the installation is generally considered straightforward with good instructions and the right tools. The main challenge often lies in bleeding the clutch system effectively.
Q2: Will the Redbooster kit make my clutch pedal too light?
It can make the pedal significantly lighter. Some users may find it beneficial to add an extra return spring for more tactile feedback and resistance.
Q3: What type of clutch fluid should I use?
The kit typically specifies the use of Dot 4 brake/clutch fluid. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations.
Q4: What if I have trouble bleeding the clutch?
A power bleeding kit is highly recommended if traditional bleeding methods prove difficult. Alternatively, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.
Q5: Where can I purchase a Redbooster Clutch Servo kit?
The kit is available directly from the manufacturer's website, www.redbooster.com.
Conclusion
The Redbooster Clutch Servo kit offers a compelling solution for Defender owners seeking to improve the comfort and usability of their vehicle's clutch. While the installation involves several steps, including the often-tricky process of bleeding the system, the end result is a significantly lighter and more manageable clutch pedal. With careful attention to the instructions and the potential need for a power bleeder, this upgrade can vastly enhance the driving experience, particularly for those who suffer from knee pain or simply wish to reduce fatigue during their journeys.
If you want to read more articles similar to Redbooster Clutch Servo: A User's Guide, you can visit the Mechanical category.