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TR2/3/3A Brake master cylinder: rebuild or replace?

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mrv8q

mrv8q

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It seems I need to revisit the brake/clutch master cylinders every four years or so, for light weeping of the fluid past the seals.

I need to address the brake master cylinder this time and am prepared to rebuild once again. However, I noticed that TRF sells new/repro clutch and master cylinders for just 30 dollars.

Thoughts on purchasing the new part, instead of a rebuild on a 60+ YO part? I have yet to examine the bore on my leaking one, but each time in the past they have been pristine. I have little experience with modern repro parts for the TR3; generally I rebuild when possible.
 
I used to rebuild all my cylinders. But, as you noted, I learned the prices are so low on replacements that it is not worth the time to rebuild.
 
The replacements are not the original brand name item and are in my opinion poor quality, I would continue to have the original rebuilt.

Graham
 
Hi,

If you are going to rebuild, check the bore and the sealing surface at the end of the bore, near the reservoir fitting. I rebuilt mine twice before I replaced it. The bore looked good. The surface the seal makes contact with, at the end of the bore must have been pitted. When that leaks, it pumps the brake fluid into the reservoir. If I held the pedal down, it would gradually drop.

Good Luck, Roy
 
FYI Pegasus sells genuine new Girling master cylinders as well as rebuild kits:

Girling Aluminum Master Cylinder with Small Reservoir - Pegasus Auto Racing Supplies

Girling integral-reservoir Master Cylinders can be used for brake or clutch. These are Brand-New, Genuine Girling units. Only the real thing has GIRLING on the side!
www.pegasusautoracing.com www.pegasusautoracing.com

Girling Remote Reservoir Master Cylinder - Pegasus Auto Racing Supplies

Girling remote-reservoir Master Cylinders can be used for brake or clutch. These are Brand-New, Genuine Girling units. Only the real thing has GIRLING on the side!
www.pegasusautoracing.com www.pegasusautoracing.com
 
Thank you all for your responses. For now I will probably rebuild again, I found I have a couple rebuild kits stored away. I will take Roy’s advice and give the core a good inspection.

I did see where Rimmers carries the Girling MCs like Pegasus, and considerably less expensive as well.

To be continued...
 
Last year I replace my clutch master cylinder. Found the new part the push rod was to shorter than the one I replaced. could get the full travel for clutch slave cylinder, might not be a issue for brakes. Back in the early 90’s when I bought new brake and clutch master cylinders the rod length were the same as the old one.
 
^^^^That’s a another good point of refurbishing the original parts of the car; at least you know the parts fit!
 
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