Experience Dealership line mechanic on MG, Triumph, Jaguar for 15 years, Instructor in commercial mechanics school 2 yr. Product information manager for piston and valve manufacture, Instructor & hotline answer man for import car parts importer 15 yrs.
Organizations Associate member SAE
EAA member
Publications Import Car magazine
Education/Credentials ASE Master Auto with L-1 certification up to 2000
Expert: Howard M. Fitzcharles III Date: 7/5/2008 Subject: Disassemble of 77 Spitfire Clutch Master cylinder
Question QUESTION: I am having problem removing the piston assembly from the clutch master cylinder. The Haynes manual says to use a screwdriver to release a catch holding the piston in place. I do not see this catch. Do I simply pull this piston straight out? I have tried to pull out but will not budge.
ANSWER: Hi Brian,
The clutch master cylinder has a snap ring in the first part of the bore that holds everything in. You need to remove that snap ring first.
Howard
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Yes. The snap ring part was not the problem but the rest of the assembly was. I finally did get the piston out but with some hydraulic pressure from the bleeder screw. I am interested in buying a refurbish kit for the master cylinder. Any suggestions?
Answer Hi Brian,
You can order parts for the Spitfire from several companies like The Roadster Factory, Moss Motors or Victoria British to name a few. They have web sites and toll free numbers and ship out in a few days. Be sure to run a cylinder hone in the cylinder bore and examine with a strong light before you order a kit so you know that the bore is not pitted. Also use DOT 4 fluid. Most mechanics prefer to rebuild the slave cylinder at the same time.
Howard
