Im gonna be replacing the clutch master/slave assy in the morning, I checked previous threads regarding the plastic strap going to the end of the actuating rod on the slave cylinder. So what is it's purpose? I've read that it is there to "break" the first time you use the clutch pedal and another, to keep the rod straight. I just want to know so that way I can do it the right way the first time.

 

Just align everything, cut, and bolt on.

 

The plastic strap has multiple purposes. It makes assembly easier since you don't have to push on the rod while bolting the cylinder on. It also helps with bleeding the hydraulics since the fluid has to originally fill up a much smaller space with the piston pushed all the way back in. Once you bolt it on and gravity bleed the hydraulics, all you have to do is push the clutch pedal in to break the straps, and voila, clutch is ready to go with minimal mess and spillage

 

The directions that come with the master/slave assembly instruct you to leave the strap in place.