MG-Cars.net

Welcome to our resource for MG Car Information.

Recommendations

Parts

MG parts spares and accessories are available for MG T Series (TA, MG TB, MG TC, MG TD, MG TF), Magnette, MGA, Twin cam, MGB, MGBGT, MGC, MGC GT, MG Midget, Sprite and other MG models from British car spares company LBCarCo.

MG MGB Technical - Brake problems

I am at a crossroads with my brake problems and could use some advice.

I can push the brake pedal to the floor. I know the previous owner installed a new master cylinder and used Dot 5 silicone brake fluid. It is an 80 LE by the way. After he realized he mixed brake fluids he replaced all of the hoses and blead the brake systems. He clame it had good brakes before the car was placed in storage. The brakes did not work when I purchased the car. I have checked the brake system over and noticed the front right rotor and caliper to be wet.

Do I stay with Dot 5 and try to bleed the system?

Or should I flush the system with denatured alchohol and use Dot 4.

I figure either way I should rebuild both calipers and replace both rear wheel cylinders.

Your advice is greatly needed!

Thanks,

Matt
Matt

Matt, the leak from the caliper has probably let a lot
of air into the system, and if the rear cylinders
are leaking also the pedal will certainly go the floor.

Lots of threads about DOT 5 in the archives, you
should first fix the caliper and any other leaks
before bleeding. Rear cylinders are cheap enough
that they should just be replaced.
Using DOT 5 by itself shouldn't
cause your symptoms, however.

I think sticking with DOT 5 is worth a try, rather
than going through the flushing process. Many
BBS members report going for years with DOT 5
without the need to replace the brake fluid.
Ronald

This thread was discussed on 05/08/2002

MG MGB Technical index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGB Technical BBS is active now.