Replacing Brake Master Cylinder

[chimivee]

Ugh, so now the master cylinder on my GF's 93 Camry is out. Lately this car is more work than my VWs!

Anyway, I've done the job on another car, but it's been a couple years. Just wondering if anyone can outline the basic procedure, tips, tools, etc. Probably going to change out all the fluid too (DOT 3/4?). Was planning to just go to AutoZone for the m/c.

Thanks for any info!

James

[Mister_Perkins]

disconnect the lines, low fluid indicator plug, and a couple nuts.

Dont adjust the push rod because its already adjusted. Put a little grease on the push rod, reinstall and bleed the brakes thoroughly

[chimivee]

Cool, thanks!

[Mister_Perkins]

For brake fluid, use:

SAE J 1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT3

[chimivee]

Great. I may just push out all the old fluid since I'll be bleeding it. How much does the system take?

[Mister_Perkins]

not sure, Get a big container of it and you should be fine.

the FSM doesn't list a capacity.

I use Wearever Gold Premium Synthetic.. its available at most parts stores.

[Mike Gerber]

A one quart bottle (32 OZ.) should be sufficient to bleed fresh fluid in to all 4 lines.

Mike

[chimivee]

Got it done. Brakes work great. Was about as straight-forward as it gets, although...

The first M/C I bought was from Autozone - $50. The brand on the core matched what I was removing (don't remember... starts with an "A") But the included plastic fittings to bench bleed it didn't want to fit the ports. I finally sorta forced it, and it screwed in but was very tight and then... SNAP, it broke off in the hole. Spent a good while trying to extract the piece that was now jammed in there, but started to mangle the port's threads. So I finally gave up, and took it back and was able to get a refund after explaining the problem.

Went across the street to Pep Boys and they had the M/C for $35. Different core unit, but the bench bleed kit was identical. But this time, the fittings screwed in without problem.

The rest was easy. Thanks all!!!