Leaking Master Cylinder?

[rstoddard]

From the stains, does anyone have an idea what I need to do to fix the leak in the Master Cylinder or Reservoir? I noticed the fluid was down quite a bit and the fluid for the rear brakes is real dark/dirty. I was preparing to flush it when I realized I might have a problem with the master cylinder.

Should I pull it, clean it and rebuild it?

Thanks for the advice!

 

[fyton2v]

$150 buys a new one, along with some peace of mind, time savings and hassle avoidance down the road.

 

[Pighead]

Looks like fluid is coming from the reservoir?
Maybe first try tightening up the hold down bolt

 

[rstoddard]

Looks like fluid is coming from the reservoir?
Maybe first try tightening up the hold down bolt

Do you know how to clean the hydraulic fluid stains so I can check to see if the leak stops?

 

[ceylonfj40nut]

Brakekleen from autozone or carb cleaner

 

[igotta40]

In my experience a rebuild kit is a lot more work and only gets you a little farther down the road

 

[85roktoy]

If buying new vs rebuilding go with the FJ80 big bore MC.

 

[rstoddard]

If buying new vs rebuilding go with the FJ80 big bore MC.

I’ve been looking at that, I just wasn’t sure what was involved. I have a ‘78 40 with discs in front and drums in the rear. I understand you have to replace the booster with an aftermarket unit, which I think is available, my just not sure what mods are required. Then the brake lines have to be re-rerouted which I understand can be difficult.

Do you have any insights into this change you can share?

 

[fyton2v]

CityRacer sells an aftermarket booster that bolts right on. It works well with the stock master cylinder.