Thread: Bleeding Defender Brakes - Any secrets ?

Figured I should show what the problem turned out to be,

It was twofold, first issue was a hole in the seal under the reservoir (rear port), although I'm not 100% convinced this was really a problem. It *may* have been allowing air to draw back into the system when the brake was released.



However after replacing the master cylinder seals, and being pleased the master cylinder was in very good condition the brakes were still strange feeling, way too much pedal travel.

My son then asked me should 'that' be moving (master cylinder). Something I certainly hadn't noticed (after all its hard to watch the m/cyl when you put your foot on the brake.

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wU3CyjTFiZ4"]YouTube - booster1.avi[/ame]

That was an after market booster (couldn't get a genuine one at the time, will have to see if I can return for credit). I'd reckon that movement was translating to more than 20mm at the pedal giving it the weird feeling. Anyhow new booster on and all now feels as it should. THe after market booster was also deeper than original moving master cylinder forward (maybe 10mm)

At least I know the brakes should be OK for a while, new vacuum pump, new booster, overhauled master cylinder all new fluid and new pads.


Martyn

Hi Roger,
It appears that I have the same issue with my shorty. The spacer that you have fitted was it specifically made and what sizes is it. I have tried 2 brand new master cylinders and still every week or 2 I go from a good peddle to nothing and when the system is bled there is heaps of air but no fluid loss.
Cheers
Mark