VI Cutty

I'm bleeding the brakes after replacing all wheel cylinders and the master cylinder. I bench bled the master cylinder, and got fluid through to three wheels no problems.

But the left front isn't getting anything. Any suggestions on common problem areas or where I should check?

Jetstarjim

Did you happen to replace the flexible brake hoses, as well. Sometimes an issue.

VI Cutty

No, didn't touch them. Time to crack some connections and see if there's fluid anywhere I guess.

I should add that the car has been in storage for years, and had nothing in the way of working brakes when I got it.

tru-blue 442

Take the bleeder valve all the way off.
A lot of times they are completely plugged
with gunk. A paper clip to run through the hole
will break the crap up, then you can bleed through it.

stan 65 cutlass

sometimes the pushrod length is different also between mastercylinders. a prob ive been noticing on a few posts. and if its getting to one front wheel, the other is in the same line as well, so it also should be getting pressure

VI Cutty

Would that hold true with a new wheel cylinder, or is it more applicable to old ones? (I'll give it a shot anyhow)

tru-blue 442

No, not with a new one.
Are you using the old bleeder valve
from the old cylinder?

VI Cutty

I saw that as well, but I think the symptoms there was that there wasn't anything coming out. (I could be wrong!)

My thoughts as well.

I used a vacuum bleeder at each wheel, so the pushrod length shouldn't be entering into the equation. The bleeder didn't suck any fluid down, although the vacuum dropped real slowly - like there's a blockage in the line. (Still have to check the rubber line) Pumping the pedal didn't force anything through either.

VI Cutty

No, the cylinders came with new valves.

tru-blue 442

Did you have fluid coming out
of the line when you pulled it off?
Also, was it real cruddy looking fluid?

VI Cutty

I don't recall if any came out or not, definitely didn't gush out. All the old fluid looked pretty dark and nasty.

tru-blue 442

Sounds like there may be an obstruction
in the line then. You may try pulling the line
off, then have someone push the brake pedal
down slowly and push the crap out of the line.
While the pedal is still down, put your thumb
over the end, then they can let up, and then push down
again. This way you push the crap out without sucking
air back inside the line. It will be somewhat messy.
Suggest goggles, don't get that stuff in your eyes.

MDchanic

It sounds as though you've just been using a vacuum bleeder.
Have you had someone push the pedal yet?
I'd give that a try - have a helper pump up the pedal and then push it down as you open the bleeder.

- Eric

VI Cutty

Helper helped.

I was able to bleed that wheel using the pedal pumping method. Test drive tomorrow. Thanks for all the suggestions!

stan 65 cutlass

great news, ill be watching for you

MDchanic

You're welcome!

- Eric

VI Cutty

Might have her down to Java World tonight barring any other problems. Planning on giving each wheel another bleed using the pump and hold method, then have to sort out the lack of turn signals!