Concentric Slave Cylinder

What is a concentric slave cylinder?

A concentric slave cylinder is a device that is part of the clutch system. It combines the function of a clutch slave cylinder and a release bearing. It is responsible for the releasing and applying pressure from the clutch plate. This serves to release or press the clutch disc against the flywheel. This function allows for power to be applied and removed for the transmission is a smooth and controlled manner.

Concentric slave cylinders are known by a few different names. Some of these are:

• Central slave cylinder

• CSC

• Internal slave cylinder

• Incorrectly called a clutch slave cylinder

What comes with a concentric slave cylinder?

Concentric slave cylinders are generally supplied as a stand alone part. There are some exceptions to this. Some are supplied with additional adaptors or connectors. If so these parts are shown in the stock photo or listed in the parts information.

How do I choose the correct concentric slave cylinder?

Replacement of concentric slave cylinders can be time consuming so finding out that you have the incorrect part at the time of fitting would be a nightmare. The best way to make sure you have the correct replacement is to obtain and compare the original (OE) part number. You can use the search function on our website to find parts that match the OE part number.

If you are not able to obtain the OE part number here are some factors to look out for:

• Number of gears (i.e. 5 speed or 6 speed etc)

• Manual or semi automatic

• Transmission type / transmission code

• Number of holes used to mount it (sometimes called holes or bores)

• Diameter of the clutch line connector

• Vehicle manufacture date (this is not the date the vehicle was registered but the date it was made

• Engine number sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

• VIN (chassis number) sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

What brand of concentric slave cylinder should I choose?

Some brands such as LuK, Sachs, and Valeo manufacture concentric slave cylinders for the original car brands however there are a good number of high quality aftermarket brands of the highest quality that meet or exceed the original specifications. Brands such as Blue Print, Borg & Beck and Febi offer long warranties which show they have confidence in their products. The correct parts availability, budget and brand reputation is often the most considered when choosing the correct replacement.

How can I tell my concentric slave cylinder needs replacing?

We would always recommend that you have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to receive an accurate diagnosis that your concentric slave cylinder needs replacement.

Some of the symptoms of a failing concentric slave cylinder are:

• When pressing the clutch pedal it feels different, either more stiff or loose or has dropped to the floor

• The clutch makes a noise when the pedal is pressed

• It is much harder to change gear

• The hydraulic fluid is low (sometimes the same as the brake fluid)

• There is fluid leaking from the clutch area