Topic: Master Cynlinder disassembly
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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When all else fails, ask the experts. Here goes.
I'm going through the brakes on my 69 and have now gotten to the master cylinder. It's on the bench and already I'm stumped. How are you supposed to get the retaining clip out of this thing? I could deal with a "C" clip, but the retaining clip that's in there has no ends to grab onto. I've never seen a retaining clip like this one.
Please help!!!!!!!!
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Lifetime MemberModerator
Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20225
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
First, make sure to have plenty of change for the "Cuss Cup"...
You need a small, flat bladed screwdriver, like a pocket screwdriver, OR, a pointed pick/awl. You're less likely to stab yourself with the screwdriver, and it will definitely hurt less than a sharp pick/awl.
You'll need to get behind the retaining ring with the screwdriver, into the groove, and "walk" the ring out. You need to have some way to hold the piston back into the master, as it will jump out once you get the retainer loose.
It sounds like your set-up has a full-circle/star type retainer...can't remember the last time I saw something like that on a master...
Can you get a pic of it?
You need a small, flat bladed screwdriver, like a pocket screwdriver, OR, a pointed pick/awl. You're less likely to stab yourself with the screwdriver, and it will definitely hurt less than a sharp pick/awl.
You'll need to get behind the retaining ring with the screwdriver, into the groove, and "walk" the ring out. You need to have some way to hold the piston back into the master, as it will jump out once you get the retainer loose.
It sounds like your set-up has a full-circle/star type retainer...can't remember the last time I saw something like that on a master...
Can you get a pic of it?
Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56 
My Link 
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"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"
Or take it to your local mechanic and pay him $10 to remove it.
Might be worth it.
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Lifetime MemberModerator
Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20225
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
The rebuild kit should have a new c-clip in it...some do, some don't...ya just never know. You might be able to get one from the parts place, I suppose...I've never needed one, so I can't say fer sher...
Glad you did get it out, without an emergency room visit! 
Glad you did get it out, without an emergency room visit!
Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56
My Link
(click for Texas-sized view!) NCRS
"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"
in Forum: C3 Engines, Driveline and Handling
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