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 - MC Storage

I'm pulling my pedal box to paint and detail my engine bay. Is there anything I should do with the Brake and Clutch Master cyclinders to keep them in good condition while they are out? Should I plug the holes with something?
J Moore

John-
Clean them out with CRC Brakleen, plug them, then fill them with brake fluid. They'll be fine.
Steve S.

Why don't you get a rebuild kit and replace the seals. I'd also inspect the bores for rust and other damage. You've got plenty of time to play now that summer is over.
Mike MaGee

Thanks Steve,

Mike, I've heard that rebuilding it can lead to trouble. Have you successfully rebuilt one?
J Moore

John,
If you decide to rebuild and they're going to sit on the shelf for a while, assemble them with Castrol Girling Rubber Grease. I've found it a few places on the web, but I bought mine from Jaguar when I worked at the dealership. If I can find a part number I'll post it...

HTH!
Rob

Rob Edwards

Rebuilding the brake master cylinder is not as easy as popping in a new seal. I'm batting about .333 with successful rebuilds. .667 went in the trash.
The MGB guide to purch and resto. nicely outlines the rebuild procedure. Maybe you'll have better luck.
Pete W

How old is the master cylinder? If it has not been rebuilt recently or replaced within the last ten years replace it with a new unit or send it out and have it rebuilt. The brake system is the most important system on the entire car. Don't take chances, it's not worth it.
Jim Pelletterie

John-
Yes, I've sucessfully rebuilt master cylinders, but the trick lies in the piston bore. If it's gone oval, then you're wasting your time and money with most rebuild kits. The only way to rebuild such an item is to bore out the body, shrink fit a brass sleeve, ream the sleeve, and fit a stainless steel piston. For all of that work, you may as well just buy a new master cylinder.
Steve S.

So far it has worked fine, the only reason I'm removing it from the car is to paint the engine bay. I don't know it's history. I'm thinking since it's out, it may be a good time to rebuild, but then again, I haven't had a problem with it...
J Moore

This thread was discussed on 17/10/2003

MG MGB Technical index

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