Free A.S.E. Study Guide
An ASE Study Guide for the Automotive Technician
Master Cylinder: Cup Seals
For more information about ASE, visit the official ASE website at www.ase.com
©Copyright 2008-09      ®All Rights Reserved         
Disclaimer      Privacy Policy
A complete visual inspection of the entire hydraulic system should be performed to rule
out any external leaks.
Then if we take a look at the master cylinder it’s easy to see
why this part must be considered any time a customer complains the pedal is
fading to
the floor or they must keep pumping the pedal
to keep from creeping at red lights.
The master cylinder consists of two pistons that work in tandem to apply pressure to
the brake system. These pistons use cup seals to seal fluid in the pressure chamber.
As the seal moves past the replenishing port it begins to create pressure in the
pressure chamber, through the lines, and onto the braking units.

If the fluid bypasses the cupped seal on either the primary or secondary piston, the
peddle will fade to the floorboard or you will have to continually pump the pedal to
maintain pressure. This is a common problem with all types of vehicles. These seals
can wear or become contaminated. Always use the proper brake fluid.