Master Cylinder-brakes

Jo Anna · 10-29-2007

Unable to locate a new brake master cylinder for my 1972 Opel GT. Current master cylinder cannot be repaired. Suggestion was made that maybe retrofit a BMW cylinder. Anybody have suggestions about this--model and year BMW? I am desperate!
Jo Anna

BQS4 · 10-29-2007

There's also been a thread on using an Eagle Talon M/c and a Honda m/c. blancojp on this site seems to have the "skinny" on all this, try contacting him.

Jo Anna · 10-29-2007

Hey great!!! Will contact this guy--thanks, eh?

edca_opelgt · 10-29-2007

There's one on ebay rightnow!
eBay.be: Opel GT Hauptbremszylinder ,Kadett B ,Opel, ATE, (object 190167753105 eindtijd 04-nov-07 19:30:00 CET)
Eddy

opelbits · 10-29-2007

Unless you have your heart set on a new master, I'm sure I have extras suitable for rebuilding.

Jo Anna · 10-29-2007

Thanks Eddy! Now if only I could see that page in English!

You are paving your way to Heaven (if there is one....)
Jo Anna

Jo Anna · 10-29-2007

Originally Posted by opelbits

Unless you have your heart set on a new master, I'm sure I have extras suitable for rebuilding.

How much do you want and shipping to 49855???
You could be the answer to my prayers--!
My son leaves in a week and is wondering if he truly can do a rebuild before he leaves.....gosh almighty--things sure get complicated in a hurry!!!
Jo Anna

hallgeir · 10-29-2007

Originally Posted by Jo Anna

Thanks Eddy! Now if only I could see that page in English!
Jo Anna

You can.

Opel GT Hauptbremszylinder ,Kadett B ,Opel, ATE, - (eBay item 190167753105 end time Nov-04-07 10:30:00 PST)

namba209 · 10-29-2007

Originally Posted by edca_opelgt

There's one on ebay rightnow!
eBay.be: Opel GT Hauptbremszylinder ,Kadett B ,Opel, ATE, (object 190167753105 eindtijd 04-nov-07 19:30:00 CET)
Eddy

Just a heads up on this MC, it is a EURO style. That is, no differential pressure chamber below the main bore. It has no provisions for the brake warning switch or the connection to the Brake Warning lite. It will still work though, I have one similar on Willit?, just no place to hook up the wire to the brake lite. I just noted that the Seller will ship worldwide.

Anonymous D · 10-29-2007

What you need to start with, is a rebuildable US GT master cylinder, which is commonly available as a used part (core exhange value is under $50.).

Then install new seals from the rebuild kit (it is suggested that you buy from an Opel retailer, as saving a few dollars from a "generic" online source, means you probably won't get same-day shipping, well-written instructions or necessary reservoir seals with their kit).

blancojp · 10-29-2007

Jo Ann:
There are many options to chose from when replacing a master cylinder, I should know since I had over 20 different units installed on my car. If you go the BMW route, a unit from an E30 will work just fine however the connections are on the left side instead of the right. Most of the other units you can install requires you to drill two mounting holes closer to the center, allowing you to bolt it on to the stock brake booster.

If your vehicle is stock, I recomend you use a Honda master cylinder and a "tee" for the front circuit. I posted all of the particulars here some time ago. If your vehicle has been modified with vented brakes or 4-wheel disk brakes like I have, use the Acura equivalent which has a bore of 15/16". Otherwise a 13/16" unit with a bit of creative thinking will get you back on the road just in time to put your car away for the winter.

opelbits · 10-29-2007

Originally Posted by Jo Anna

How much do you want and shipping to 49855???
You could be the answer to my prayers--!
My son leaves in a week and is wondering if he truly can do a rebuild before he leaves.....gosh almighty--things sure get complicated in a hurry!!!
Jo Anna

I'll have to dig one out, but I could probably get it to you pretty quick, $10 plus shipping. Could do a next-day or two day shipping.

Tony P.

jvandyke · 10-30-2007

I hope you get it worked out so the GT is ready for next year as we need a Michigan meet and I personally would love to run to the UP. This is first year I can remember where I didn't run up there at least once. Bugs me.

GTJIM · 10-30-2007

Originally Posted by Jo Anna

Current master cylinder cannot be repaired.
Jo Anna

We have a company in town who bore out master cylinders and fix in a stainless steel sleeve to restore old, rusted ones - never have to be fixed again! They also do wheel cylinders and disc brake calipers too.

Here is a clip from Hemming's Motor News:

The same options would apply to your original master cylinder. Repair kits can be purchased to repair your original, or you can resleeve the master cylinder in the same way the wheel cylinders would be fixed. Several advertisers in your latest issue of Hemmings Motor News can perform this service for you. Many cylinders can actually be improved upon by the installation of a stainless-steel sleeve. The stainless steel resists rust and pitting much better than the stock cast-iron bore. You will have to pay extra for this type of repair, but it will last many times longer than the conventional repair would. The cylinder bores are actually oversized to accept the new sleeve, which is press-fitted or adhered to the new bore dimension. Advertisers who can perform stainless steel sleeving include Karp's and Apple Hydraulics. The cylinders would be equal to the original specifications, but with the added advantage of the stainless-steel bore.

KARP'S Power Brakes
Upland, California
909-985-0800

Apple Hydraulics
Calverton, New York
631-369-9515

Jo Anna · 11-02-2007

Originally Posted by opelbits

I'll have to dig one out, but I could probably get it to you pretty quick, $10 plus shipping. Could do a next-day or two day shipping.

Tony P.

Hi Opelbits! Son wants me to ask what "creative thinking" means

and would I need to replace all four brake lines? Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner--so much going on to prepare for winter, etc.!
Great big wads of Opel Smiles,
Jo Anna
PS--about that Michigan Meet idea--Brockway Mt. Drive is the only place to be at the end of Sept. first week of Oct. for the stunning Fall colors!!!

David McCollam · 11-02-2007

The primary problem as explained to me by Ron Karp (owner of Karp's) in sleeving the Opel master cylinder is the use of the small chamber below the main bore of the master cylinder. This houses the valve for the brake warning switch. Evidently, the orifice feeding this is offset enough that assess without an offset drill is not possible. The cylinder can be sleeved but this switch will no longer function as designed. It does not affect the master cylinder function. I have three Manta master cylinders there at this time to give him test beds to come up with a solution. So far nothing. These have been there about a year.

OpelJim · 11-02-2007

Originally Posted by Jo Anna

Unable to locate a new brake master cylinder for my 1972 Opel GT. Current master cylinder cannot be repaired. Suggestion was made that maybe retrofit a BMW cylinder. Anybody have suggestions about this--model and year BMW? I am desperate!
Jo Anna

Jo Anna

There are at least 3 Opel parts suppliers in the USA who will provide you with OEM parts, new or remanufactured Opel parts.

If you can support these companies it is greatly appreciated by the owners, I can assure you it is.

Opels Forever

RallyBob · 11-02-2007

Originally Posted by David McCollam

The primary problem as explained to me by Ron Karp (owner of Karp's) in sleeving the Opel master cylinder is the use of the small chamber below the main bore of the master cylinder. This houses the valve for the brake warning switch. Evidently, the orifice feeding this is offset enough that assess without an offset drill is not possible. The cylinder can be sleeved but this switch will no longer function as designed. It does not affect the master cylinder function. I have three Manta master cylinders there at this time to give him test beds to come up with a solution. So far nothing. These have been there about a year.

FWIW, I've had old master cylinders resleeved by White Post Restorations. They will actually drill and reweld the master cylinder to allow for the switch.

Bob

blancojp · 11-02-2007

You can also remove the piston assembly from the switch chamber and install a pressure unit. I have done it this way many times and works the same way.

I frankly don't care about the switch, it is very hard to feel assured by a dash light that you don't have brakes when you are crashing into something.

In any event, NAPA has two in the main warehouse and it is part# 111-541.

jvandyke · 11-02-2007

Originally Posted by Jo Anna

PS--about that Michigan Meet idea--Brockway Mt. Drive is the only place to be at the end of Sept. first week of Oct. for the stunning Fall colors!!!

Is that the one that winds up to the overview above Copper Harbor? If so, you'll want your brakes working for the trip back down!

Jo Anna · 11-04-2007

Originally Posted by OpelJim

Jo Anna

There are at least 3 Opel parts suppliers in the USA who will provide you with OEM parts, new or remanufactured Opel parts.

If you can support these companies it is greatly appreciated by the owners, I can assure you it is.

Opels Forever

Hi and thanks for the suggestion of Opel parts dealers--we've gone that route before turning to the expertise of all of you and -- no dice! But sounds like Tony P. may be our salvation--heck it's Sunday--we could use a little salvation!

I visited my son (100 miles south of here) and MY OPEL this weekend and he is flying out Monday for Texas and returns for 4 days after 2 weeks in Amarillo. Hoping to have a cylinder for him to work on when he returns. Snow is predicted for all of the coming week and even tho' the clocks turned back an hour this morning and gave us one more hour, we fear we'll run out of time....

Cheers!
Jo Anna

opelbits · 11-04-2007

Hi Jo Anna-

Sorry I haven't gotten back to you sooner. So much going on. I will post a pic of what I have later on.

Tony P.

opelbits · 11-04-2007

I also found this:

1972 OPEL OPEL GT Master Cylinder

Under $40, might be worth trying.

Sparky73 · 11-04-2007

Not 100% sure if it's for a GT, but there is one on eBay right now. Item #190170226798.

Jon

Jo Anna · 11-05-2007

Originally Posted by Sparky73

Not 100% sure if it's for a GT, but there is one on eBay right now. Item #190170226798.

Jon

Hey thanks for the head's up! I have sent the link to my son who is winging his way to Texas at the moment.
Cheers!
Jo Anna

10-29-2007	#1 (permalink)
Jo Anna Lempi: Feared by all Walleye Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Houghton, Michigan Posts: 154	Unanswered: Master Cylinder-brakes Unable to locate a new brake master cylinder for my 1972 Opel GT. Current master cylinder cannot be repaired. Suggestion was made that maybe retrofit a BMW cylinder. Anybody have suggestions about this--model and year BMW? I am desperate! Jo Anna __________________ We know more than we know we know.

10-29-2007	#2 (permalink)
BQS4 Southern Red Neck Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Snellville, GA Posts: 6,028 Real Name: Gene Provided Answers: 12	There's also been a thread on using an Eagle Talon M/c and a Honda m/c. blancojp on this site seems to have the "skinny" on all this, try contacting him. __________________ "Yes, I do have a rifle rack in my Sportwagon"

10-29-2007	#3 (permalink)
Jo Anna Lempi: Feared by all Walleye Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Houghton, Michigan Posts: 154	Hey great!!! Will contact this guy--thanks, eh? __________________ We know more than we know we know.

10-29-2007	#4 (permalink)
edca_opelgt Opeler Join Date: May 2003 Location: Belgium Posts: 71	master cylinder There's one on ebay rightnow! eBay.be: Opel GT Hauptbremszylinder ,Kadett B ,Opel, ATE, (object 190167753105 eindtijd 04-nov-07 19:30:00 CET) Eddy

10-29-2007	#5 (permalink)
opelbits Detritus Maximus Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: St. Louis MO Posts: 1,160 Provided Answers: 1	Unless you have your heart set on a new master, I'm sure I have extras suitable for rebuilding. __________________ "No, it's not fiberglass." "No, the motor is not in the back." "No, your friend in high school did not 'peg' his speedometer."

10-29-2007	#6 (permalink)
Jo Anna Lempi: Feared by all Walleye Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Houghton, Michigan Posts: 154	Thanks Eddy! Now if only I could see that page in English! You are paving your way to Heaven (if there is one....) Jo Anna __________________ We know more than we know we know.

10-29-2007	#10 (permalink)
Anonymous D Opeler Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Planet Earth Posts: 502 Provided Answers: 3	Not Difficult to Do (within a week) What you need to start with, is a rebuildable US GT master cylinder, which is commonly available as a used part (core exhange value is under $50.). Then install new seals from the rebuild kit (it is suggested that you buy from an Opel retailer, as saving a few dollars from a "generic" online source, means you probably won't get same-day shipping, well-written instructions or necessary reservoir seals with their kit).

10-30-2007	#13 (permalink)
jvandyke Opeler Join Date: May 2006 Location: Hudsonville, Michigan, USA Posts: 1,794	I hope you get it worked out so the GT is ready for next year as we need a Michigan meet and I personally would love to run to the UP. This is first year I can remember where I didn't run up there at least once. Bugs me. __________________ "Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn." Benjamin Franklin

11-02-2007	#16 (permalink)
David McCollam Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Texas Posts: 589	Karp's and Apple The primary problem as explained to me by Ron Karp (owner of Karp's) in sleeving the Opel master cylinder is the use of the small chamber below the main bore of the master cylinder. This houses the valve for the brake warning switch. Evidently, the orifice feeding this is offset enough that assess without an offset drill is not possible. The cylinder can be sleeved but this switch will no longer function as designed. It does not affect the master cylinder function. I have three Manta master cylinders there at this time to give him test beds to come up with a solution. So far nothing. These have been there about a year.

11-04-2007	#22 (permalink)
opelbits Detritus Maximus Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: St. Louis MO Posts: 1,160 Provided Answers: 1	Hi Jo Anna- Sorry I haven't gotten back to you sooner. So much going on. I will post a pic of what I have later on. Tony P. __________________ "No, it's not fiberglass." "No, the motor is not in the back." "No, your friend in high school did not 'peg' his speedometer."

11-04-2007	#23 (permalink)
opelbits Detritus Maximus Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: St. Louis MO Posts: 1,160 Provided Answers: 1	I also found this: 1972 OPEL OPEL GT Master Cylinder Under $40, might be worth trying. __________________ "No, it's not fiberglass." "No, the motor is not in the back." "No, your friend in high school did not 'peg' his speedometer."

11-04-2007	#24 (permalink)
Sparky73 1000 Post Club Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Saginaw, MI Posts: 1,279 Real Name: Jon Provided Answers: 2	Not 100% sure if it's for a GT, but there is one on eBay right now. Item #190170226798. Jon __________________ Current 1970 GT; Under Construction Previous 1969 GT; Street/Strip Project 1969 GT; White with Black Interior, Automatic 1969 GT; Black Parts Car 1969 GT; White Parts Car 1970 GT; Silver with Red Interior 1971 GT; Orange with Black Interior, Turbo 1972 GT; Red Parts Car 1972 GT; Blue with Black Interior 1973 GT; Pearl Blue with Black interior. Full body kit.

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