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Which M/C for 1981?

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Old May 23, 2024 | 10:44 PM
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Default Which M/C for 1981?

Looks like I have a minor leak coming out of the back of my brake master cylinder in my ‘81. It also appears that almost all master cylinders are made in China now. I’m not actually concerned about where its made, but can anyone recommend a good company that won’t leak after like a year? AC Delco? Or do I need to buy one of those expensive boys from the Corvette parts suppliers. Thanks!
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Old May 24, 2024 | 05:00 AM
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Personally, I would look at Tuff Stuff. USA Made. Available through Summit racing and others.
Or simply put a kit through yours.
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Old May 24, 2024 | 07:42 AM
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I was able to just buy an oem remanufatured one from the autostore when mine failed is this no longer an option? I later bought a chrome billet looking one on ebay (likely chinese made) which has been working fine the last 4-5 years. (this is the type I have but not exact part ) https://www.ebay.com/itm/14557599070...650K7HQZ2TJ9BA

AC delco is no more.. Its just a brand name on a box now, whats inside comes from different manufacturers all over the world. that said its still a relatively safe bet.
I think the one I used was a cardone from advance auto I do remember there was something unique about it vs most gm cars of the era. of course my brake booster also failed a couple years later and that wasnt fun to replace. I bought a new replacement on ebay also with no issues.

I just found 2 new drilled and slotted front rotors and pads on amazon for $48!! last night. which I ordered along with matching rear rotors. I have my front end apart now replacing the front suspension and wheel bearings and even though the original rotors are still thick I noticed a lot of rust and pitting from sitting especially in the cooling vein area.
EDIT glad I ordered them last night.. I just checked and they are up to $274 today? someone must have made a mistake.

Last edited by augiedoggy; May 24, 2024 at 07:57 AM.
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Old May 24, 2024 | 08:06 AM
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mine had same leak. went thru a few and the one on it was not original. even new i think if they set around not good for seals.. eBay found an original numbers one rebuilt Wagner.. leaked..

that said if original try to rebuild in link below. Knock on wood, bone dry still.. i think my rag joint is dry for the first time in 40 years.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...1-8-power.html

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Old May 24, 2024 | 08:56 AM
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Corvette Central has masters and they know Vettes. And that is the key word here, "know".

I can tell you, be very leery of anyone behind the parts counter near you. They are in a hurry, don't read anything with an asterisk* so their computer will show:
Fits All Vettes From 1899 - 2024. WRONG!

Wherever you purchase a master, place your old one right next to it, side-by-side and compare. Pay particular attention to the back of the unit where the piston is located. GM changed design over the yrs. If you do not purchase an exact duplicate, pain & suffering will be in your future with the bleeding process.
Do not turn your core in until all is said & done.

As mentioned, you can rebuild your old MC. If you make a mistake rebuilding a caliper, you can still limp home.
If you make a mistake rebuilding a master, you could do a lot of property damage and even kill someone.
If you are not comfortable with the process, then buy rebuilt.

If you would like to see some tips on Bench Bleeding the master, click on my avatar and look for photo album bench bleeding.
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Old May 24, 2024 | 09:04 AM
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I ordered MC and brake booster,Tuff Stuff,they fit perfect,with no issues.
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Old May 25, 2024 | 06:31 PM
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Anyone have a part number for the correct Tuff Stuff one? I searched, but it seems like there's a variety of colors and styles. The difference appears to be model 2071 and 2020. Anyone know which one is correct for an '81? Thanks!
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Old May 26, 2024 | 07:44 AM
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Default MC leak

Originally Posted by 22229stingray81
Looks like I have a minor leak coming out of the back of my brake master cylinder in my ‘81. It also appears that almost all master cylinders are made in China now. I’m not actually concerned about where its made, but can anyone recommend a good company that won’t leak after like a year? AC Delco? Or do I need to buy one of those expensive boys from the Corvette parts suppliers. Thanks!
I Had what I thought was an MC leak at the back of mine, turns out it was a cheap chrome cap I had put on. Put the original back on and no leak anymore. Check that first
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Old May 27, 2024 | 06:53 AM
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Originally Posted by 22229stingray81
Anyone have a part number for the correct Tuff Stuff one? I searched, but it seems like there's a variety of colors and styles. The difference appears to be model 2071 and 2020. Anyone know which one is correct for an '81? Thanks!
wouldn't that be as simple as contacting Tuff Stuff? They are a US Company after all.
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Old May 28, 2024 | 09:11 AM
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Willwood?
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