brake master cylinder replacement

[brfrompa]

I have a new master cylinder on the way from our 90 535i. It has the lucas girling type. Does anyone have some tips before i dig into this? I've done brake replacement and bleeding before.

So far i was told it's not exactly easy, but not out of reach for a backyard mechanic. One warning was to keep all dirt out of system or i'll kill the abs.

Mainly I'm wondering if there is an odd ball tool that you simply must have to do the job.

Any tips would be appreciated.

Brent

[jeffreyb4me]

No special tools needed, just patience and care with the flare nuts when you start them. Recommend an inexpensive pressure bleeder. Before you tighten the lines, connect the bleeder with low pressure and tighten the fittings when you see clear fluid dribbling out then pump up the pressure and bleed the system fully.

[brfrompa]

That's good news. I'll be sure to make sure the flare nuts aren't cross threaded.

Much appreciated,
Brent

[4-Door Flunky]

Brent, you're leaving out the juiciest information: how much did the new master cylinder cost?
Are we talking three digits, or four?
Flunky

[brfrompa]

The $$$$ ! yes, important detail. autohausaz.com hit me $133 and change for the lucas/girling master cyl. I bought a RH strut assy from them too. They seem to have good service and good prices. A nice find!

The job is done, test driven and feels good. It went very well. Only needed a couple wrenches, like 7mm, 10mm, and 13 or 12??? The only thing i had to purchase was the 7mm for the bleed valves on the calipers. It really didn't take too long. The scary part was how dirty the brake fluid tank was. Sludgey!!!! Probably the reason the master cylinder went. I cleaned it out and reassembled it, bleed the wheel cylinders starting at the back, and away we go! (or away we stop?)

Now, to tackle the candle like dim low beams problem.

(yes, i already soldered the bad joints in the light kontrol module.)

[jeffreyb4me]

Let me know how you do with the dim headlamps, I'll assist if I can.............jeff b.

[brfrompa]

I have condensation in all the headlights. I've put new bulbs in the low beams, the dimmest of the dim, and it only helped a bit. I have yet to check the right at the bulbs, but i will !

[jeffreyb4me]

COndensation should mean all you lenses are cracked or have pin holes and a build up inside that can't be cleaned, which is likely to be your problem. I'd recommend checking for B+ voltage [should be with in 0.5 volts of battery] If it's ok, start shopping for replacement headlamps.