Date:         Thu, 22 Jun 2006 12:36:20 -0400
Reply-To:     Mike Collum <collum@VERIZON.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Mike Collum <collum@VERIZON.NET>
Subject:      Re: 88 Westy brake master cylinder question
Comments: To: John Graham <theklube@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <194423170606220801x4787e67biaca5de67aa765126@mail.gmail.com>
Content-type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

Yes.  I've replaced Vanagon Master cylinders by removing the instrument
cluster and unbolting them from the brake booster.  Of course, you have
the brake light wires and, if you have a clutch, the hose to its master
cylinder.

Mike


John Graham wrote:
> I recently had a local shop replace my front brake pads and am enjoying the
> renewed braking performance.  However I recently also noticed that when I
> have come to a stop in traffic, sitting there with my foot on the brake
> (auto transmission) that the car will begin to creep forward and I can then
> press a little harder (the pedal goes down a slight bit) and of course the
> van stops.
>
> There doesn't appear to be any brake fluid loss, so my diagnosis is that
> the
> seals in the master cylinder have aged to the point of leaking a little.
> I've rebuilt master cylinders in my younger days, but given the criticality
> of the master cylinder, I think spending ~$100 at the Bus Depot for a new
> one would be the right call for me.
>
> Now for my question:  The Bentley Manual shows the master cylinder and
> booster unit configuration.  But doesn't give any guide if you're just
> going
> to replace the master cylinder unit.  I've taken the instrument cluster off
> before, so doing that's not a big deal.  Once that is off, is it
> possible to
> unbolt the master cylinder from the back of the booster without further
> disassembly of the dashboard??  If so, I'll tackle this one, if not
> then, we
> go back to the shop.
>
> John Graham
> 88 Westy in Charlotte - 147,000 miles on first set of heads (I think) -
> I do
> change that coolant periodically.
>