Master Cylinder replacement

[ohiou_98]

I just bought a ranger boat/trailer. After realizing the brakes weren't working, I inspected the actuator and noticed there was no fluid in the reservoir. In fact, it was dry and looked rusty. I've filled the reservoir, primed the master cylinder, disconnected the line from the cyclinder, and no fluid comes out. So, seems as if the master cylinder needs replaced.

The actuator is made by ufp. Has anyone changed one of these before? Is this an easy job, or complicated? I'm trying to decide whether I should tackle this job at home, or take it to a mechanic.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Master Cylinder replacement

On the UFP that I changed this on it wasn't too bad.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Master Cylinder replacement

Do some comparison shopping before just swapping out the master cylinder. I had a MC rust out on an Attwood. The replacement MC was only $25 cheaper than buying a complete new actuator. The new actuator came with an aluminum MC that eliminated any possibly of rust problems in the future.

You might as well change out the brake lines as well. Guarantee they?re full of rust as well.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Master Cylinder replacement

UFP units are often welded into the trailer frame.

 

[jacknbella]

Re: Master Cylinder replacement

How do you replace it if it is welded to the frame? I have a similar repair coming up but no means to "break" a weld. Please advise.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Master Cylinder replacement

You just replace the master cylinder inside. If you have to change the whole unit for some reason, you have to have the old one cut off and the new one welded on.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Master Cylinder replacement

How do you replace it if it is welded to the frame? I have a similar repair coming up but no means to "break" a weld. Please advise.

The housing on most actuators are not more than an 1/8" thick. Doesn't take long to grind thru an 1/8" of weld with a disc grinder and a hard wheel.

No need to weld on the new one. Transfer the holes from the hitch to the tongue. Drill the two or three mounitng holes and attach using grade 8 hardware.

 

[jtmarten]

Re: Master Cylinder replacement

How do you replace it if it is welded to the frame? I have a similar repair coming up but no means to "break" a weld. Please advise.

The MC should be bolted to the actuator frame, or bolted to spring plates which are bolted to the frame. You shouldn't have to cut/grind anything to remove the MC.