Dear Tom and Ray:

Could you please clear up a question that has been nagging this weekend mechanic. Why are so many brake master cylinders mounted at such odd angles? My older cars have nice, level reservoirs, and they seem to brake just fine. Also, why does brake fluid turn dark even when it seems clean? Does the fluid ever need to be flushed and replaced? -- Gary

Ray: The answer to your first question is space, Gary. As cars have gotten smaller, more things get crammed into smaller engine compartments. And the brake master cylinder is one of those things that can go almost anywhere -- so it does.

Tom: And the angle doesn't make any difference. As long as the fluid is at the recommended level, it works just fine, which is why your newer cars stop just fine, too.

Ray: And yes, you should flush your brake fluid regularly. The rubber seals in the master cylinder, the wheel cylinders and calipers deteriorate over time. And that deteriorated rubber is what makes your nice, clean brake fluid turn dark.

Tom: We suggest a brake-fluid change every 30,000 miles. And if the angle of the master cylinder continues to bother you, try tilting your head slightly when you look at it.

Everybody wants a new car. But from a purely financial point of view, there is no question that buying a used car is always cheaper, even in the long run. To learn more, order Tom and Ray's pamphlet How to Buy a Used Car: Things That Detroit and Tokyo Don't Want You to Know. To order, send (check or money order) to Ruin, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475. You can also order online.

© 1996 by Tom and Ray Magliozzi and Doug Berman Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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