Re: 164 brake fluid loss

[C2slayman@domain.elided]

Ray,
       You did not mention if there was brake fluid visible around to grommet 
area.  I don't know the details of the 164 design, but brake fluid is 
non-volatile.    There should be no compatiblity issues as far as seal 
integrity.  As I recall, the different DOT ratings are for boiling point and 
moisture accumulation.  These are not your problem - though you should use 
the DOT rating recommended by Alfa.
       Any leak should be visible.  Of course, if the leak is in an area that 
has a lot of dirt/grease/oil it might be hard to tell what is what.  If you 
believe you are SEEING the leak, then go ahead and have your mechanic do the 
repairs.  If you cannot SEE the leak, then you haven't isolated the problem 
and replacing the master cylinder is just an expensive wild goose chase.
       On the Spider, a common failure mechanism is the master cylinder 
leaking into the vacuum diaphragm.  You will see that you are loosing fluid, 
but you won't see it going anywhere!  Once you disassemble the master 
cylinder, then it becomes obvious that the fluid is accumulating in the 
diaphragm.  This might be your problem.

Cheers,
Charlie


In a message dated 04/17/2002 6:07:51 AM Pacific Daylight Time, 
owner-alfa-digest@domain.elided writes:


> Date: Tue, 16 Apr 2002 21:15:49 -0700
> From: "Ray Clemo" <RayClemo@domain.elided>
> Subject: 164 brake fluid loss
> 
> I have a very gradual loss of brake fluid in my 164 Q.  My mechanic thought
> that it was due to deterioration of the line leading from the reservoir to 
> the
> master cylinder, possibly due to previous replacement with incompatible hose
> material.  On disassembly, he concluded that the problem area was actually 
> in
> a couple of grommets on the input side of the master cylinder.  He thought
> possibly this could be due to oil getting on them somehow.
> 
> Unfortunately, it seems that this will require replacement of the master
> cylinder, which is not obtainable separately from the booster. Has anyone 
> else
> experienced this problem?  Any alternative solutions? Could this be due to
> incompatible brake fluid?  I have been using Castrol LMA.  I don't know what
> the previous owner used.
> 
> Prompt response would be appreciated.  The master cylinder/booster will be
> ordered tomorrow, and work will begin on Thursday.
> 
> Thanks,
> Ray Clemo

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