Is it common for brake master cylinder to leak?

[kensmith]

I have a 78 124 spider and it leaks brake fluid. Looks like it is coming from the master cylinder so I ordered a new one. The car sat in the previous owners garage for some time and he told me probably seals dried up. Is this common? Should I buy a new reservoir also? Thanks!

[So Cal Mark]

no need for a new reservoir unless yours is cracked

[surfingfreeman]

My master cylinder was leaking at one of the grommets on top of the cylinder where one of the 2-lines enters the cylinder via a nipple and grommet connection. These grommets are ribbed for his/her pleasure (JK) but sometimes the rib wears down and the pressure fit is compromised....................then again maybe the leak is in some other part of your system.

[kensmith]

My master cylinder was leaking at one of the grommets on top of the cylinder where one of the 2-lines enters the cylinder via a nipple and grommet connection. These grommets are ribbed for his/her pleasure (JK) but sometimes the rib wears down and the pressure fit is compromised....................then again maybe the leak is in some other part of your system.

I think you are correct as it looks like the leaking is at the lines in the top of the master cylinder.

[surfingfreeman]

Seeing as how inexpensive the master cylinder is to buy new, it would probably make sense to get a new one, at the time my car was my daily car so I went online to find the grommets and was sent the wrong ones, I guess there are a few types that were used based on the type of nipple used, if you are going to try and find the grommet online I would send a picture of the nipple to the vendor to ensure compatability.

[kensmith]

Seeing as how inexpensive the master cylinder is to buy new, it would probably make sense to get a new one, at the time my car was my daily car so I went online to find the grommets and was sent the wrong ones, I guess there are a few types that were used based on the type of nipple used, if you are going to try and find the grommet online I would send a picture of the nipple to the vendor to ensure compatability.

Can the grommet be purchased at your local parts store? I ordered the master but I am sure it won't come with additional parts as it was new for $30.00.

[surfingfreeman]

The master cylinders sold at IAP come with nipples and grommets included but i think they also sell a kit with them as well
http://www.international-auto.com/index ... sid=882614
vicks sells them as well but again double-check compatability with a live person

[kensmith]

The master cylinders sold at IAP come with nipples and grommets included but i think they also sell a kit with them as well
http://www.international-auto.com/index ... sid=882614
vicks sells them as well but again double-check compatability with a live person

That's exactly what I got. Box says made in Italy. $30.00 + $12.00 shipping.