62' Master Cylinder Rebuild Problem

[Kennith H.]

Well, I've finally returned to the master cylinder - I have a rebuild kit and thought I would see what the guts look like. But I can't get the 1-1/4" nut loose at the front end. Due to the odd shape of the unit and the flange on the firewall end, I can't get the unit adequately clamped and still protect the finish - I have a large vise and can due some serious damage when I'm not paying attention. Does anyone have any experience with breaking the cut loose on an original master cylinder? Why would they be this tight?They do back off to the left don't they?
Help! Ken

[Bruce B.]

Re: 62' Master Cylinder Rebuild Problem

I just rebuilt the master cylinder on 62 #2299 and although the large nut was tight it did loosen and come off.
I took the master cylinder and laid it on my wooden work bench and clamped it down with a 2 X 4 with a clamp at each end (of the 2 X 4) and was able to loosen the nut using the correct size wrench. If necessary you can gently tap the wrench with a hammer to loosen the nut.
Be gentle and take your time.
Bruce B.

[Stuart F.]

Re: 62' Master Cylinder Rebuild Problem

The 63 and 64 uses an inner snap ring on the firewall end which, I believe, no one makes a tool for. I looked all over for one. My solution; take it with me to "Just Brakes" and they disassembled it for free while they were pressure bleeding my new brakes. Funny how you can get the pros to do things for you just for the pleasure of having your C-2 in one of their bays.

Stu fox

[Clem Z.]

Re: 62' Master Cylinder Rebuild Problem

Well, I've finally returned to the master cylinder - I have a rebuild kit and thought I would see what the guts look like. But I can't get the 1-1/4" nut loose at the front end. Due to the odd shape of the unit and the flange on the firewall end, I can't get the unit adequately clamped and still protect the finish - I have a large vise and can due some serious damage when I'm not paying attention. Does anyone have any experience with breaking the cut loose on an original master cylinder? Why would they be this tight?They do back off to the left don't they?
Help! Ken

use a impact wrench

[Christopher R.]

Re: 62' Master Cylinder Rebuild Problem

Use a six sided wrench.

There's no clamps or snap rings holding it on. It should just unscrew. It's regular threads - "lefty lousey, righty tighty."

Use blocks of wood in between the vise jaws and the master cylinder to hold it secure. The blocks of wood will protect the finish. BTW, I believe these were not "finished." They were raw steel. So if you mar the "finish," you can refinish it.

Any impact you can deliver to the nut will help.

[Kennith H.]

Re: 62' Master Cylinder Rebuild Problem

Thanks guys, I never thought of using wood which provides conformity to the shape. I used a thin towel which allows the part to slip around - no good! I'll take your advice. Thanks again.