brake fluid reservoir location

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Topic author
TBones12
Posts: 182
Joined: Tue Jun 18, 2019 2:20 pm
First Name: Robert
Last Name: Poane
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1916 Hack, 1910 Touring, 1914 Touring, currently a Touring 1912, 1912 Torpedo Roadster
Location: Baltimore
MTFCA Number: 17004
MTFCI Number: 17004
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brake fluid reservoir location

Post by TBones12 » Tue Nov 23, 2021 8:34 pm

I repositioned the brake fluid reservoir to a position that is below the brake mechanism.

Does it matter that it is below the mechanism? Must it be higher for gravity feed or is there a negative pressure (positive pressure?) that sucks the fluid into the brake lines.......

Thank you in advance.

Bob
Attachments
brake 2.jpg
brake 2.jpg (47.47 KiB) Viewed 1374 times
brake 1.jpg


Chuck Regan
Posts: 72
Joined: Tue Jan 08, 2019 1:58 am
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* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1926 Roadster Pickup
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MTFCA Number: 50122
Board Member Since: 2019

Re: brake fluid reservoir location

Post by Chuck Regan » Tue Nov 23, 2021 11:33 pm

Bob - I assume you have installed disc brakes. Not sure which mechanism you are referring to, but if your reservoir is above the level of the calipers, I think you should be okay. If the reservoir is below the level of your calipers, or if you lack a firm pedal, you may need a 2 lb. residual pressure valve located in line at the outlet of your master cylinder to ensure your caliper pistons just contact the discs - without dragging.
If I’m missing anything above, I’m sure some of the professional mechanics/restorers on this forum will chime in - properly working brakes are essential.


Mikey1968
Posts: 229
Joined: Fri Mar 01, 2019 9:08 am
First Name: Michael
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Location: Northern Virginia

Re: brake fluid reservoir location

Post by Mikey1968 » Wed Nov 24, 2021 10:00 am

I'm betting you didn't want a plastic part on your firewall. Me neither. Here was my pricey solution.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/304203531519?h ... Swh2xYBqMB
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20210904_191608.jpg


Mikey1968
Posts: 229
Joined: Fri Mar 01, 2019 9:08 am
First Name: Michael
Last Name: Jewell
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1926 Touring
Location: Northern Virginia

Re: brake fluid reservoir location

Post by Mikey1968 » Wed Nov 24, 2021 10:03 am

I think it would be a great idea if the vendors offered this reservoir in their brake kits as a deluxe option!


TXGOAT2
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Re: brake fluid reservoir location

Post by TXGOAT2 » Wed Nov 24, 2021 11:17 am

The master cylinder reservoir ought to be at least slightly higher than the master cylinder itself. The system has to be bled properly and fully to get all air out of the lines and the various cylinders. Brake master cylinders typically have a back pressure holding capability to prevent air leaking into the system and to keep a slight set on cups and seals. When a vehicle is in extended storage, it's a good idea to press on the brake pedal once a month or so to replenish the system back pressure and prevent cups from sticking. No need to stomp it; just press on it a couple of times with a moderate pressure.


Chuck Regan
Posts: 72
Joined: Tue Jan 08, 2019 1:58 am
First Name: Chuck
Last Name: Regan
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1926 Roadster Pickup
Location: Thousand Oaks, CA
MTFCA Number: 50122
Board Member Since: 2019

Re: brake fluid reservoir location

Post by Chuck Regan » Wed Nov 24, 2021 12:58 pm

Bob - Pat brings up an important point. Looking at your pictures, it looks to me like your reservoir is above the level of your master cylinder. If not, you will have problems. If you need to relocate the reservoir, it would be an opportunity to place it high enough to avoid needing a residual valve.


Topic author
TBones12
Posts: 182
Joined: Tue Jun 18, 2019 2:20 pm
First Name: Robert
Last Name: Poane
* REQUIRED* Type and Year of Model Ts owned: 1916 Hack, 1910 Touring, 1914 Touring, currently a Touring 1912, 1912 Torpedo Roadster
Location: Baltimore
MTFCA Number: 17004
MTFCI Number: 17004
Contact:

Re: brake fluid reservoir location

Post by TBones12 » Wed Nov 24, 2021 3:21 pm

I read your comments and I thank you!

I installed a 1914 gas tank under the seat of this 1912 Torpedo. The reservoir fit perfectly under the seat high above the master cylinder. But due to the gas tank I have to find another higher ground.

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