Brake failure

[76Barn]

I've recently replaced the master cylinder, the van hasn't moved for a few weeks, then first time I drive it after the master cylinder op, the brakes aren't working at all. Is it possible that the work I done has affected the brakes?

Thanks all

[AdrianC]

You've replaced the master cylinder, and are wondering if that might have affected the brakes...?

You can replace the clutch master without needing to bleed the brakes, since it takes the fluid off from slightly higher up the reservoir. But you'd still need to top the reservoir up again - and you might as well just turn it into a full fluid change.

But if you meant the brake master, then - you'd definitely need to bleed all the fluid through from all five nipples.

[76Barn]

Okay, I beg your pardon I think I may have been a little tipsy when I posted that.
I actually replaced the clutch slave cylinder, not the master. I'm not suggesting the two are linked more just trying to set the scene. When the van was garaged there wasn't a problem with the brakes, now after the slave was replaced and the van had been off the road for a while, the brakes don't work.

Any suggestions?
Thank you

[Wychall]

I would surmise that you allowed the level in the reservoir to fall too low whilst bleeding the clutch circuit, such that air was introduced into the brake system. Your first action must be to bleed the brake circuit fully (all wheels) to confirm whether this was the case, keeping the reservoir topped up whilst you do it.

Good luck.

[76Barn]

Cheers, that's tomorrow afternoon sorted out then.

Thanks