Brake Master cylinder renewal?

[Dennis]

Hi all,

here's another newbie question: how can one tell when one needs a new brake master cylinder? Or maybe just need to 'revive' it....

Mine has the little rod sitting between the pedal and the cylinder coming out real easy, is that supposed to be like that? Also, after the rod came out, brake fluid was coming out as well. To me, it doesn't look very safe etc., the car passed it's yearly MoT check though.

Any clues?

Dennis

[ttweed]

If fluid is leaking out the rod end of the cylinder, then the piston seal has failed. You can rebuild them with a new seal kit, but check the bore for roughness-- if it is too pitted or scored, you might be better off with a new cylinder. They are not THAT expensive, compared to the alternative of brake failure....

TT