Thread: replacing master cylinder

Hi everyone. First off, browsed this site several times for some very useful information - great source. First time posting I believe.

Have a problem. So because I was a moron and was completely not paying attention, I accidentally poured steering fluid into the brake reservoir - at least I think. Hard lesson learned but now I need to change out the calipers and master brake cylinder before my brakes stop working completely. Rebuilt calipers run about 35 apiece and a new master runs about 80 so I'm hoping my lesson learned won't be that costly. I have a couple of questions to make sure I completely fix the problem.

1. To begin with, is the master that hard to replace? Calipers shouldn't be a problem as I've done that before.
2. I need to flush all the lines. Is the easiest/best way just to open all the bleeders and let everything gravity drain out? Once all drained, would it be wise to throw down some brake cleaner to make sure all the power steering fluid is out? If so, should I then run some brake fluid through the lines to make sure all the brake cleaner is out?
3. What else am I missing that I'll need to be aware of/replace????

Thanks for your help in advance!!


edit: it's an 03 GT N/A if it matters.

Thanks for the reply. I've been doing some extensive reading online today and have found that just flushing new clean fluid through won't get rid of any petroleum based product that may be in the line - you have to use denatured alcohol or brake cleaner to get it out. As for the parts, I have to replace them because I can feel the seals swelling as it's gripping the rotor when no pressure is put on the brake. So, here's what I'm going to try and do.

1. Remove master cylinder
2. disconnect and flush out all brake lines
3. dump healthy dose of brake cleaner down the lines
4. blow compressed air through the lines to dry the brake cleaner out
5. replace calipers
6. replace and bleed new master cylinder along with the lines

Hopefully that will cure my moronic mistake. I'll report back when finished.