FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Contamination Check

NOTE: Brake fluid contaminated with a hydrocarbon/mineral based fluid (such as power steering or transmission fluid) can be detected by an obvious swelling of the master cylinder cap gasket.

WARNING: If the swollen brake master cylinder gasket condition is present, all brake system rubber parts must be replaced. All components containing rubber parts must be overhauled or replaced. All brake tubes must be thoroughly flushed with brake fluid before the vehicle goes back into service. Contaminated and swollen parts can lead to brake failure.

INSPECTION
Blistering or swelling indicates contamination of brake fluid by a petroleum-based solvent or oil. In that case, all rubber components in the brake hydraulic system must be inspected and replaced and the entire system must be flushed with clean brake fluid to prevent recontamination.

COMPONENTS - Replace the following components:
^ front brake caliper seals
^ front brake hose
^ rear wheel brake hose
^ brake pressure control valves
^ brake master cylinder

WARNING: The brake master cylinder is serviced as an assembly. Do not, under any circumstances disassemble the brake master cylinder and return it to service on a vehicle.