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MG MGA - Leaking master cylinder

Another master cylinder question. I cannot get the master cylinder to stop leaking in my 56A on the clutch side. It seems to be coming from the banjo bolt. I've replaced all the copper washers and banjo, but it still leaks. Is there a trick to tightening or sealing the connections? Thanks.
Bobby

If it still leaks with new seals and Banjo--you either have a crack in the MC where the bolt goes in--or you may have a cracked flare on the line going to the banjo. Do not attempt to use any type of sealer or teflon tape on the hydraulic system. Dry the fitting with carb cleaner to remove all traces of brake fluid...and then, using an inspection mirror and a good light--find out exactly where the leak is originating. Once you know that piece of the puzzle, the rest should become easy.
R. L Carleen

Check the 4 faces of the banjo joint. If they are not flat and smooth, then dress them up.
Art

While you have it apart to clean and dry before you check for cracks/bad flare check I would suggest a couple of things.
I have had new copper washers supplied to me already work hardened. If they are hard they cannot crush and seal the joint. Get a container of water, float a little light oil on the surface, heat each washer cherry red and plunge into the water while still red to quench and temper the washer. Clean the washer surfaces and make sure its flat before reinstallation.
Chuck the banjo bolt into a lathe holding it carefully by the threads. Examine the seat under the head of the bolt as the lathe turns. Take a graver and lightly take a fine cut off this surface. Now the seat should be true with the threads and pull the fitting up true.
I know this sounds fiddly, but sometimes its the only way to insure these joints will seal correctly-especially with the quality of some of the new fasteners-or worn old ones.
HTH
John
John

As Art has said the faces must be flat and smooth. In addition the faces on the Banjo fitting (not the bolt) must be parallel to each other. As John stated. the copper washer should be annealed first.

Chuck
Chuck Schaefer

This thread was discussed between 25/05/2005 and 26/05/2005

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This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGA BBS is active now.