I would think if the slave leaks past the piston you would feel the drop in the pressure on your pedal similar to brakes loosing fluid or pressure. I am not 100% sure of that though. My slave cylinder actually leaks fluid on to the ground, I have no trouble shifting.Do you have a manual? 11-2 explains 2 adj.pedal total travel(bumper adjustment) and pedal free travel. I could scan and send out page for you although I don,t know if that will solve anything. Ask Woogaroo.Or Scott