Thread: Advice pls - replacing brake master cylinder '88 Range Rover Hiline

Originally Posted by DerekatBooroobin

Hi,

I'm replacing the brake master cylinder on our Range Rover.

I've removed the master cylinder, and according to the instructions I've checked the booster for brake fluid or petrol. I've seen brake fluid in the first section of the booster, up to the level of the inlet hole for the master cylinder.

Can anyone advise whether that will have damaged the booster?

Should I remove the booster completely?

Should the booster be replaced?

I've also noticed one of the metal rings inside has come loose from whatever it was attached to.

Regards, Derek

Fluid in the booster does not sound good. Is the metal ring a circlip off master cylinder? The booster is easy to remove. just take the cowl off under the dash in work through the rats nest!
Be better to get he fluid out of the booster. It may still be OK. Check for vacume leaks as the fluid may have done harm. I think the booster can be rebuilt but I've never bothered to do one.
I have just put all new in my 89 model. Costed around $450 for the lot. Better than failure as my wife and kids come 1st.

If you have fluid in the booster then you had a major leak out the rear of the MC, i have dismantled a booster before and checked the diaphram cleaned it and reassembled it and its still good after 13 years.

prolonged exposure to brakefluid can stuff the diaphragm and the seals inside the booster especially if the fluid has been "worked" into the rubber from regular brake applications.

feel the diaphragm. if it feels nice and strong and your finger doesnt "grip" it then its ok. IF it feels really soft like chewing gum then it should be replaced.

Thanks for the advice.

I'll test the diaphragm, as recommended. If it can be cleaned and salvaged, I'll do so.

Subject to what I find, I've requested a second hand booster to be set aside for me by our local Land / Range Rover specialists.

I've been quoted $220 for a second hand booster. Does that seem reasonable? I wonder whether it is, based on the price paid by Rangie Rover. Suggestions of good, reasonable, reliable and speedy suppliers of new and / or second hand Rand Rover parts would be appreciated.

Regards, Derek

Suggestions of good, reasonable, reliable and speedy suppliers of new and / or second hand Rand Rover parts would be appreciated.

Regards, Derek[/QUOTE]
What is your location?

Hi,

We're located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, not far from Maleny, 100kms to the north of Brisbane.

Regards, Derek

In you were in vic i would give you my spare for a slab of beer.

Loanrangie,

That's a generous offer.

Perhaps you could consider sending it for the combined prices of the postage and handling AND a slab of your favourite beer?

Regards, Derek