Racetrim Slave Cylinder, Pull Style

High-Performance Clutch Control: The Racetrim Pull Style Slave Cylinder

The EMPI Racetrim Pull Style Slave Cylinder is the gold standard for off-road and high-performance air-cooled Volkswagen applications where precision clutch control is non-negotiable. Designed specifically for those running hydraulic pedal assemblies in sand rails, dune buggies, or heavily modified Beetles, this unit replaces the traditional, often-failing cable-actuated system with a smooth, consistent hydraulic pull. By utilizing a 22.23mm (7/8 inch) bore, it provides the necessary leverage and fluid displacement to actuate even the heaviest performance pressure plates without the leg-breaking effort often associated with stiff, high-friction cables. The Racetrim series is synonymous with rugged durability, ensuring that whether you are launching off a dune or navigating a technical trail, your clutch engagement remains predictable, crisp, and reliable under extreme heat and pressure.

Constructed with high-grade materials and precision machining, this slave cylinder features dual 1/8 NPT ports for versatile plumbing options. One port comes equipped with a high-quality bleeder fitting to simplify the air-removal process, while the other is fitted with a 3/8-24 female adapter to accommodate standard hydraulic lines. The pull-style design is particularly advantageous for custom chassis where space is at a premium or where the linkage geometry favors a pulling motion over a traditional pushing one. When paired with a proper mounting bracket and a heim joint end, this unit eliminates the binding and friction common in lesser setups, providing a professional-grade feel that transforms the driving experience of your air-cooled machine. Don''t settle for a spongy pedal or a snapping cable when you can upgrade to the hydraulic precision of Racetrim.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

This slave cylinder is a universal performance component designed for hydraulic conversions. While it is not a direct "bolt-on" for stock cable brackets, it is the primary choice for the following applications:

• VW Beetle & Super Beetle: All years (with hydraulic pedal conversion).
• VW Karmann Ghia: All years (with hydraulic pedal conversion).
• VW Type 2 Bus / Transporter: Custom hydraulic clutch setups.
• Sand Rails & Dune Buggies: Ideal for all tubular chassis builds.
• Baja Bugs: Perfect for off-road racing and rugged terrain.
• Meyers Manx: And other fiberglass kit car applications.
• Formula Vee: Custom racing applications requiring hydraulic actuation.

Technical Specifications and Dimensions

• Bore Diameter: 22.23mm (7/8 inch).
• Actuation Type: Pull Style (Cylinder pulls the clutch arm).
• Housing Material: High-strength billet-style aluminum.
• Inlet Ports: Tapped 1/8 inch NPT in two locations for flexible routing.
• Included Fitting: 3/8-24 Female Flare to 1/8 NPT adapter.
• Bleeder Valve: 1/8 NPT Bleeder fitting included and pre-installed.
• Compatibility: Compatible with all standard hydraulic pedal assemblies and master cylinders.
• Finish: Precision machined raw aluminum.

Professional Installation Tips from the Appletree Specialists

Tip 1: Critical Alignment for Seal Longevity

When installing your Racetrim slave cylinder, the single most important factor for longevity is the mounting angle. You must ensure that the cylinder is mounted in a perfectly straight line relative to the clutch arm''s path of travel. If the cylinder pulls at even a slight angle, it puts side-load on the internal seals and the piston, leading to premature leaks and eventual failure. We highly recommend using a dedicated, heavy-duty mounting bracket that allows for fine-tuning the alignment to prevent any binding during the full stroke of the clutch pedal. If your setup isn''t straight, you will be replacing seals far sooner than necessary.

Tip 2: Use Heim Joints for Smoother Operation

To achieve the smoothest possible clutch feel, don''t simply hook the pull rod directly to your clutch arm with a standard bolt. Instead, utilize a high-quality heim joint (rod end) on the end of the slave cylinder shaft. This allows for a small amount of articulation and ensures that the force is transferred linearly even as the clutch arm moves through its natural arc. This small addition significantly reduces friction and prevents the shaft from bending or "loading up," which is a common cause of a "scratchy" or "notchy" pedal feel in custom hydraulic setups.

Tip 3: Mastering the Bleeding Process

Bleeding a hydraulic clutch system can be notoriously difficult in rear-engine vehicles due to the long line runs from the front master cylinder to the rear transaxle. Since