Is a stiff clutch normal for a Civic?

mntbiknfool · 08-02-2009

I recently purchased a 1997 Civic with 82k miles and was surprised at how stiff the clutch pedal was. The stiffness of the clutch is almost comparable to that of the muscle cars I used to drive as a kid! This is a little 4 cylinder...the pressure plate shouldn't be THAT stiff should it!

The previous owner said that both the master and slave clutch cylinders had both been replaced recently. I bleed the clutch today to see if it would help anything and noticed a squeal as the clutch pedal was pressed that appeared to come from within the bell housing. The car has set idle for a while and I am beginning to think that the pressure plate has begun to rust! I mean, the pedal resistance should be proportional to the spring resistance in the pressure plate, correct? So the questions I have are:

1) Is your clutch petal easy to push or hard?
2) Has anyone ever had a similar problem?

Thanks for your time.

Jim

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monkeydave · 08-03-2009

mine is light on 2004 se 1.6 civic

guitarsnroses · 08-05-2009

I have a '96 civic coupe, and the clutch is very easy to push.

Xirkoz · 08-11-2009

Maybe they replaced it with an aftermarket clutch, its a possibility?

cloume77 · 08-25-2009

I had 96 ex, 99 Si, and just bought 04 Si and all three clutch felt/feels pretty smooth and easy.
I agree with Xirkoz comment, previous owner had installed aftermarket clutch...