cmedigovich

First time on the forum with a question on a 1968 MK2 Cortina (USA).

Running into some brake drag issues. To start the brake pedal has 0 free play and is very stiff and hard to push. Understanding this is a non power brake car its a little over top. The brakes DO stop the vehicle but after a short trip the fronts stick on. When I purchased the vehicle it had a new master cylinder installed, but needed a proportioning valve and final bleeding. Thinking maybe the master cylinder rod was out of adjustment not allowing for any free play in the pedal I pulled it apart but found out they are not adjustable leaving me confused. Do I need to shorten the rod? Is there something else causing this?

Please advise if I am missing any information that would be helpful in diagnosing my problem.

Thanks

R.S.LOGAN

Check and make sure the pads are sliding o.k in calliper and pistons are free also .Some cars had problems with the front flex hoses collapsing inside and not letting the fluid return , thereby holding the pressure / pads on .

R.S.LOGAN

Just an afterthought , correct master cyl fitted ?

cmedigovich

Now that is a good question.... How could I tell if it is the correct master-cylinder.

R.S.LOGAN

Case of checking part number on master cyl against correct number ?

R.S.LOGAN

Came across this whilst trying to find info on master cyls.

" Am I right in saying that some cars (take for example mk2 cortinas or mk2 escorts) with servos use a different master cylinder size to those without servos and actually the braking is not quite as good as a result? "

Answer ,

" The Mk2 GT/1600E brakes without servo used a 0.7" master and 7/8" rear cylinders (and P16s at the front).
The Mk2 1600E/Lotus with the servo used the 0.75" master and 0.7" rear cylinders.

The large master with servo will reduce pedal travel but will also reduce pedal feel.

Aside from the servo, a smaller diameter master will give longer pedal travel and better feel, whereas a larger diameter master will give shorter pedal travel but less feel."


Whether this applies to your car or not I cant confirm as sometimes different equipment fitted for different countries .

cmedigovich

This is some good information. Thanks R.S. Logan. Looks like I have some more investigating to do. I reckon the master cylinder is not the OEM piece. That being said, do you or anyone else know the length the of the rod once fitted to the master cylinder. If mine varies I could shorten it. I have a feeling finding a master cylinder in the USA will not be easy or cheap.

R.S.LOGAN

This on E-bay shows a master cyl .with part number for FORD CORTINA MK2 EXPORT MODELS .Might help , but it is in Cyprus .

LOCKHEED/GIRLING FORD CORTINA MK2 EXPORT MODELS BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER | eBay

R.S.LOGAN

Could drop an e-mail to this site if still having problems and they may be able to help or advise ,

Classic Car Parts - PowerTrack Ltd - Mail Order Supplier of Lockheed and Girling Brake and Clutch Components For British Car and Commercial 1935 - 1980