Tilton master cylinder leak

Tommy · #1 (**permalink**) 02-21-2002, 08:15 AM

I recently purchased a six year old E-M Cobra replica with less than 1,000 miles (according to previous owners). On close inspection, I noticed few drops of hydraulic fluid on the rubber boot covering the clutch rod to the Tilton hydraulic clutch master cylinder. I've done a lot of my own work on other cars, but never a Tilton master cylinder. Research indicates I can buy a repair kit for about $20 or a replacement master cylinder for about $50. I have two questions for those of you more experienced with these things. First, is there any reason not to go for the replacement master cylinder? And second, is there anything I should look for to understand why it started leaking with so few miles? Thanks.

Larry Hills · #2 (**permalink**) 02-21-2002, 09:36 AM

Tommy, disassemble the cyl & inspect it. Look for cracks in the body, pits or scars in the bore. Minor imperfertions can be honed out. Look at the piston & cup. Is there a cut in the cup? If so why? If the cup is the only thing bad you may be able to buy a brake wheel cyl. cup of the same diameter. They are only a few cents at the parts house.

Double Venom · #3 (**permalink**) 02-21-2002, 06:50 PM

Here's a hint that Tilton and Wildwood don't tell you.

Do NOT use silicone fluid! Their seals wont stand up to it. This might be the cause for the leak.

Larry is right on though, minor, very minor scuffing shouldn't hurt. If you have any pits you can feel with your fingernail..time to replace.
Usually it's harder to get the cylinder out to repair, than it is to repair.

Good luck to ya.
DV