Dark oily substance under DS carpet

[jcwhitty]

Hello All: I noticed an oily substance appearing in my carpet directly below the foot rest and extending back along the rail probably 18 inches. I could not imagine where this could originate from, so I pulled some of the carpet up to take a look. There was actually a small pool of the stuff in the conduit rail. There was no sign of oil originating anywhere from the firewall, but it did appear to be seeping from under the carpet, towards the center console. Prior to pulling additional carpet up, I thought I would post up and see what anybody else knows. Could this possibly be the black nasty stuff breaking down that they adhered the carpet padding to ? See picture.

Thanks any help!

John.
1994, 245k

 

[surfpig]

My only guess would be brake fluid. Check your master cylinder.

 

[jcwhitty]

Thanks. I had already checked, and could see no signs. At your suggestion, I looked a little further, and though there is no clear sign of fluid, or a path, I agree with you, it must be the culprit. Will put in a new master cylinder, I figure it is about time anyway, and see if that resolves the issue.

John.!