So, my brakes have felt a little odd lately. Mostly that it's a little closer to the floor before it starts working properly. Typically if I pump it twice before actually braking it stiffens up and works the way I'm used to. So anyway, I popped the cap off of the Master Cylinder and this is what I found. One cylinder was full (the one closest to the firewall), and the fluid itself looked kinda dirty. The other cylinder was pretty close to empty. What could this mean?

Thanks in advance.

You need to adjust the rear brakes.

_________________
David Kight
'62 Valiant Signet, White
'98 Dodge Dakota
'06 Jeep Liberty

Growing older is unavoidable but growing up is strictly optional.

If a reservoir was once full and now its emtpy the fluid had to go somehwere. Do a careful check for leaks at the cylinders, lines, junction/proportioing block.

That is how my car is aswell. It's pretty dangerous when your going 50mph and you need to slow down really quick, and for my car, I have to pump it around 3 times to get it where I want it. Then, my rear wheels lock up when I push real hard, but, if I can pump it real quick and ease into it, my brakes work ok. I'm thinking check for leaks, adjust brakes, and also pump the brakes to get the air out of them.
Cory

_________________
-'72 Valiant Sedan, Stock (For Now)

If the rear brakes are locking up it COULD be because of a leak letting brake fluid seep out on to the linings. Having to "pump up" the pedal is often cured simply by adjusting the brakes. As they wear it takes more pedal travel to push them into contact with the drums. After a point the master cylinder runs out of travel before the shoes make firm contact with the drum, a quick pump allows more fluid into the lines to complete the braking stroke. It's ALWAYS a good idea to inspect everything for leaks on a regular basis, but especially if you're having a problem with pedal travel or disappearing fluid. Also be aware that if you do adjust the brakes and the wheel cylinders are dirty, pitted or worn you could develop a leak as the piston and cup begin operating in a different place in the cylinder bore.

_________________
David Kight
'62 Valiant Signet, White
'98 Dodge Dakota
'06 Jeep Liberty

Growing older is unavoidable but growing up is strictly optional.