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MG TD TF 1500 - MC Removal Query

Hello,
When removing my master cylinder I consulted the workshop manual it said to remove the brake line and the two bolts that secure the MC to the frame. Then it said, "disconnect the brake pedal return spring from the frame. Lift out brake pedal complete with pushrod, rubber boot and pedal return spring. The master cylinder is now easily removed."
However after I removed the two bolts the MC simply slid out the back along with the rubber boot, but the push rod and the brake pedal remained in the car with the return spring attached to the frame. It looks like the brake pedal is on a common shaft with the clutch pedal that comes in from the left side of the frame and could not be removed as described in the workshop manual. My car is an early TD (#3157). Do I really need to take the brake pedal out to replace the MC?
Joe Holtslag

Joe
I serviced my MC without removing the brake pedal. As you found out the push rod remains connected to the brake pedal. It was a straight forward job to replace the MC afterwards.
Goos luck
Mick 52TD
Mick Cook

You have the MC out. Thats the important part. I left the pedal assembly in as well. On installation it is important to have the pushrod adjusted properly for the MC to work effectively. Make sure the MC returns fully when the brake is disengaged, and then adjust so there is a small amount of clearance. Otherwise the brake may lock on because the fluid cannot return properly.

There is more in the Archive on this.
C.R. Tyrell

Mick is right, Joe. The only messy part of the operation is to get the rubber boot into the groove on the front of the master cylinder while it's still in place on the front of the push rod. It's also a good time to check for the 1/2 inch of freeplay at the pedal. Bud
Bud Krueger

Bud, my new MC has the rubber boot attached, can I just bring the MC up to the push rod and slide it forward until the mounting holes are lined up.

I don't see why to take the rubber boot off the MC just to have to put it on again?

Does that make sense?

Thanks.

Peter
P G Gilvarry

The small end of the boot fits into a groove on the pushrod; if the boot is not all the way in the groove, it allows dirt to enter the m/c area. It's usually easier to slide the boot onto the pushrod (which is still attached to the pedal), and then work the large end of the boot onto the m/c before you insert the two bolts.

Tom Lange
MGT Repair
t lange

Makes sense, will try that!
P G Gilvarry

This thread was discussed between 18/08/2013 and 14/08/2016

MG TD TF 1500 index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG TD TF 1500 BBS is active now.