brake fluid reservoir removal

[chrism]

Hi All. I had an EasyBleed 'blast' last year (could've been too much pressure at 20lb/sq in) and I've got a wet seam around the plastic reservoir - which keeps reappearing after wiping:-



I don't think it's the cap washer; it could be a weeping/split seam

Does anybody know if removing it is 'just' a means of emptying fluid and prising upwards? I notice that there's a rather thick metal rod above it... I think I need to get it out to have a good look and put my mind at rest

Anyone done it?

[FunElan]

Having just done this on a BMW, yes it just required pulling up after the fluid was drained. That's an unfortunate failure if it is indeed the seam.

[dapinky]

It is (as a Haynes manual would say) - "Simply lift upwards away from the master cylinder".

But it is never that simple. It is actually a real bu66er to do, and requires a fair bit of force (reasonable if you think about it, because it needs to be a close fit in normal use) - there are 2 rubber gromets between the reservoir and the cylinder.... and it needs lifting as close to vertical as you can manage to avoid putting lateral strain on the plastic 'tubes' sticking out of the bottom of the reservoir.

I find that it is a case of 2 chisels for levers, and a steady pressure to separate the parts.

Oh, a quick thought, you will need to disconnect the fluid level sensor before you do the job.

[chrism]

Thanks for all that good advice dapinky. I was worried that it wouldn't have enough clearance.

ps Is there an alternative part?

[Tuga2112]

oh yes. search the forum chris. about the master cylinder "replacement" or "upgrade" theres an alternative one form the GM parts bin that gives you a bit more travel which some folk prefer.

obivously my memory aint good enough to give you the answer. but i know its here... and Dave will probably remember the details

[dapinky]

Some confusion arising..... the alternative Joao mentions is for the actual master cylinder - I have never needed a new reservoir, but would expect it to be the same as the GM car that the cylinder comes from......

A quick look on Google shows loads of Vauxhall versions - but this one looks promising as it is the most like the shape of the Elan one (many are more wedge shaped)..... I haven't looked at the dimensions to see if it will fit, but it may be a clue....... that said, I would expect the one you have to be stamped with a GM part number anyway. https://www.autodoc.co.uk/ate/191630?ut ... SkQAvD_BwE

[chrism]

Thanks for that folks. That makes our £Lotus£ reservoir offering a more v-f-m price

Yes it occurred to me that I might be straying into the new mbr seals or replacement area now...

[Tuga2112]

in for a penny.....