Leaky Rear Brake Cylinder, What Should I Do

[Dino Mo]

Quick Question Primarily of Economics

I just bought a 71 FJ40 and got a sweet deal on it because of some of its problems (it has major wiring issues and some brake problems, but came with 36s, a Chrylser 360, 4 inch lift, Saginaw PS, Rear Detroit Locker, 5 sp transmission). Basically its the crusier of my dreams (which is probably going to make my other 40 and my 60 jealous).

Anyway, one of the rear brake cylinder leaks. Supposedly the guy I bought it from rebuilt it once already, but I have my doubts as to how mechanically inclined the man actually was. Would it be better from an economical/safety perspective to try and rebuilt the cylinder again or to simply replace the whole unit?

Thanks

Casey

 

[malcb]

Replace, particularly if someone your not 100% sure about has messed with it.

 

[Cruiserdrew]

Your brakes are pretty important. The $45 for a new cylinder soes not seem too expensive. Trying to save a few $ here does not make any sense to me.

 

[HeadCase]

X3. Easy to do, and cheap insurance.

 

[Mtrunner]

I agree you will most likely need a new cylinder. But, since you have to pull off the old ones anyway, open them up and look how bad they are. There are several brake cylinder rebuild information sites or posts that are super helpful. Maybe your PO only installed the seals upside down, easily solved. Most likely though, the cylinder itself is pitted and corroded. But you'll never know unless you look and you can learn a lot that way. Prepare for new ones but a least check out the old ones... If you have questions about how bad is too bad to reuse, you know where Mud is.

 

[jmylie]

I would replace all 4 rear brake cylinders. I'm guessing but the reason he has brake issues is that the adjusters may be frozen on some of the cylinders. Drum brakes need to be adjusted often.

If 1 is leaking, the others may not be far behind. This gives you the opportunity to do a complete brake job, if needed. I would definitely adjust both the front and rear brakes.

If your running 36" tires with a 360 cu in motor and have drums all around, you may want to think about upgrading to disc's.