Brake Fluid Leak

[bbbtate]

Went ahead and replaced the cylinder, but there were no spacers there like I expected..are they necessary? I also need help on bleeding the brakes. Never done it, no clue where to start. Thanks

[Cusser]

[bbbtate]

Ok, well, Everything is installed with the master cylinder, and its full of fluid, but when I press the brake, there is no pressure or anything. Do I need to adjust the push rod length or something?

[vernonc]

Your push rod is, probably, alright however it wouldn't hurt to check it. You should have 1/4 to 1/2 inch of movement at the top of the peddle before the rod starts moving the piston in the master cylinder. If not, adjust it.

Next, you'll need to bleed the system.

There are only two ways and I mean only two ways to bleed the brakes on your car properly!

One is with a 'power bleeder' which you can make yourself or buy from aircooled.net. They're about $ 80.00.

Second is the 'two man' method.

With the two man method, first, adjust the brake shoes until they are 'rather tight' against the drums; you should be able to turn the drums but that's about all.

Second, since yours is a 'dual circuit' system, your fluid reservoir has two compartments; one for the front brakes and one for the rear. You must frequently check the fluid reservoir and keep both compartments full.

Third, take off any tape or grease that may be on the bleeder screws and be sure they are closed and have someone pump the pedal several times, rather slowly, then 'hold it down'!

Next, open the bleed screw on the 'right front' for a few seconds and then close it.

Repeat this until you get good, clean fluid flow; this may take several tries and the person doing the pumping should hold the pedal down until the bleeder screw is closed.

Proceed to the left front then the right rear then the left rear.

There could be a lot of air in the system and could take several tries. However, if you keep the reservoir full and close the bleed screws before the pedal is released, you'll eventually get all the air out.

Note: It's okay to put a short piece of tubing on the bleeder screw and catch the 'spent fluid' in a jar but that's just for 'house keeping' and to keep fluid from dribbling down the backing plate.

Hope this helps and good luck.

mort
_________________
"Those who don't read newspapers are un-informed. Those who do read newspapers are mis-informed." Will Rogers

'69 sedan, low mileage, all original.....currently being 'freshened-up' for road trips and daily driving...just not every day

Freshening-up link http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=617386

[bbbtate]

Thanks vernonc! I now have brakes!

[houseofboyd]