Club 80-90 Forums

Have noticed for some time a gradual loss of fluid in the brake and clutch cylinder reservoir. Most recently the footwell below was soaked in fluid. I am thinking that it is the clutch master cylinder having looked at it as best I can as access is limited. Ordered a replacement part. The removal looks a problem due to seized bolts removal of hose between reservoir and cylinder etc and access. Any tips please.

It’s not too bad to do. You just need to get down to the same level. You’ll find your own comfortable spot!
I didn’t have any problems with the connections but if you’re a bit worried give them a clean and a spray with plusgas prior to undoing. There’s a few good how to videos on YouTube.
Get a decent torch on the job.
David.

Thanks David, looking on you tube, one shows it from a L/H drive where access looks easier, whereas mine is R/H where access is blocked by the centre gubbins, hope it is the clutch master cylinder, also the braided feed pipe looks a tight fit, how difficukt is this to undo. When replacing I read in the Haynes manual that the pushrod remains in place on the pedal, is this easy to slip back into the new Cylinder and realign.

Have you put your hand up there to see there’s any fluid around the cylinder just to rule out the brake master?
To put the pushrod in just guide it in by hand while manoeuvring the new part with your other hand.
I watched a few videos for help although like you mine was rhd.

https://youtu.be/ra5VvaFR7qs?si=BIUHQfHPubqFSR7w

https://youtu.be/StawBx6oXNA?si=D-0gNYg4tgZtZgE5
David.

Hi David, what I can see the cylinder is covered in brake fluid, can hardly put one hand up to check, considering taking steering wheel off for better access due to shoulder room or is that overkill. Seen them videos also, makes it look easier than what i am experiencing.

It looks worse than it is, honestly.
David.

Thanks, Luckily my Neighbour is a Mechanic who will help me or do it for me next week.

Job still not completed, twisted my back. Where can i get a replacement hose from the brake and clutch reservoir that feeds down to the clutch master cylinder and what are the dimension please?

Brickwerks sell it, iirc it’s 7mm id but best to double check.
David.

jrt wrote: ↑12 Apr 2026, 17:06 Brickwerks sell it, iirc it’s 7mm id but best to double check.
David.

Hi all further to above how can the hose be removed from reservoir to clutch master, tried at reservoir but v tight and not moving, would like to remove it so there is more room at the clutch master cylinder for removal.

It is best to lever the end of the tubing away from the reservoir or master cylinder body with a flat-bladed screwdriver.

Pulling on the hose simply draws it in on itself tightening it's grip on the stubs.

Or gently try a bit of twisting action to break any 'bond' between the hose and the stub.

Thanks will give that a go

Also a bit of heat will help it become more flexible and easier to remove. Gentle heat only - hot air gun on low or a hairdryer, or if you stick a towel underneath and around, a bit of hot water poured over it.

I often wrap the ends of a set of pliers in tape and use that to gently rotate the end of the tube.

One of a lot of jobs where ten minutes spent on it now saves an hour or two later.

Thanks, managed to prise it off but possibly damaged the end of the hose, but looks as if enough left to trim and refit.