Update on clutch issue.
Yesterday I received the parts from boodmo and went running to ASC for getting my beast back on track. With hopes that I might have a "gift" for Christmas. And atleast have a drive or two.
Removing the Master & Slave cylinder took some time as they are located awkwardly and its hard to get wrenches in.
Upon removal, We found the cylinders to be actually good. Which is super strange. The pistons were working.
On closer inspection and to my Horror, We found out that the slave cylinder (which sits on a clutch fork and actuates the fork to release the clutch) has ended up damaging the clutch fork itself!.
Initial diagnosis looks puzzling & Grim.
I have never heard of this kind of failure despite using Safaris since 98. Nor has the Mechanic.
The mech suggested that such awkward failure is only possible of something is further damaged in the clutch cover or gearbox and has ended up giving a strong strike to clutch fork, causing it to move out of range and causing a catastrophic failure. I can now imagine (with my Paining head) broken pieces of something, flying in the gearbox bell housing.
Well, if you think thats the end of bad news, Here is more.
Since this repair calls for removal for Gearbox and Gearbox is situated behind the 4x4 assembly, the said assembly will have to removed too.
Removing the 4x4 is a complicated process and costs 6k just for labour.
But wait, it get worse,
Since removing the 4x4 system requires a better equipped & trained workshop, I will have to tow the beast to a larger city and get it done there.
Sigh.