The overhaul of the Brake Master Cylinder begins by uninstalling it from the vehicle while securing its mounting flange on a bench vise to access the primary
Piston rear at the back. Before removing the reservoir cap and diaphragm check the surrounding area. Test for any cuts, cracks, nicks or deformation in both components and replace them if needed. A smooth round-ended tool should be used to depress the primary Piston until achieving primary Piston assembly removal together with Piston retainer removal. Low pressure, non-lubricated, filtered air should be introduced through the front outlet port while plugging all cylinder inlet ports and rear outlet port to remove the secondary Piston together with the primary and secondary seals and the return spring. The mechanic should remove the three components that compose the primary Piston assembly with its Piston retainer and seals. Use denatured alcohol to clean the master cylinder's interior and exterior along with its secondary Piston , return spring but avoid using abrasive materials. Evaluate each master cylinder component for damage from cracking, scoring, pitting or corrosion. Replace the master cylinder if either one of these defects appears. Use filtered non-lubricated air to dry all components before applying delco supreme ii® (GM P/N 12377967, Canadian P/N 992667) or equivalent dot-3 brake fluid from clean, sealed supply as lubrication for the master cylinder bore and secondary Piston and return spring as well as all overhaul components. Install the new primary seal and retainer with the new secondary seal onto the secondary Piston. Then position the lubricated return spring and secondary Piston assembly inside the cylinder bore before inserting the lubricated new primary Piston assembly . Use a smooth tool with a round end to compress the primary Piston before installing the Piston retainer. Depress the master cylinder reservoir back onto the vehicle by reinstalling its reservoir cap and diaphragm.