GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Master Cylinder Reservoir Replacement without RPO LAT

Warning: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Warning in the Preface section.

Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Caution in the Preface section.

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 1961286  Size: SH
  1. Disconnect the brake fluid level indicator switch electrical connector.
  2. Remove and discard the brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir.
  3. Remove the master cylinder reservoir bolt (1).

  4. Object Number: 1961289  Size: SH
  5. Remove the reservoir (1) from the master cylinder.

  6. Object Number: 1961291  Size: SH
  7. Remove the reservoir seals (1) from the master cylinder.

Installation Procedure

  1. Inspect the master cylinder reservoir for damage and replace, if necessary.
  2. Clean the reservoir with denatured alcohol.
  3. Dry the reservoir with filtered, non-lubricated compressed air.

  4. Object Number: 1961291  Size: SH
  5. Lubricate the seals and the reservoir bayonets with Delco Supreme 11®, GM P/N 12377967 (Canadian P/N 992667) or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.
  6. Install the reservoir seals (1) to the master cylinder.

  7. Object Number: 1961289  Size: SH
  8. Install the reservoir (1) to the master cylinder.
  9. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1961286  Size: SH
  10. Install the master cylinder reservoir bolt (1) and tighten to 8 N·m (71 lb in).
  11. Connect the brake fluid level indicator switch electrical connector.
  12. Fill the master cylinder reservoir. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling.

Master Cylinder Reservoir Replacement with RPO LAT

Warning: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Warning in the Preface section.

Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Caution in the Preface section.

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the master cylinder from the vehicle. Refer to Master Cylinder Replacement.

  2. Object Number: 176838  Size: SH
  3. Remove the fluid level sensor. Refer to Brake Fluid Level Indicator Switch Replacement.
  4. Drain the brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir.
  5. Secure the mounting flange of the brake master cylinder in a bench vise so the rear of the primary piston is accessible.
  6. Carefully tap out the reservoir retaining pins until clear of reservoir.

  7. Object Number: 1365686  Size: SH
  8. Remove the reservoir from the master cylinder.
  9. Remove the seals from the master cylinder reservoir.

Installation Procedure

  1. Inspect the reservoir for cracks or deformities. If found, replace the reservoir.
  2. Clean the reservoir with clean denatured alcohol, or equivalent.
  3. Dry the reservoir with non-lubricated, filtered air.

  4. Object Number: 1365686  Size: SH
  5. Lubricate the new seals and the reservoir bayonets with new Delco Supreme 11®, GM P/N 12377967 (Canadian P/N 992667) or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.
  6. Install the seals, making sure they are fully seated.
  7. Install the reservoir onto the master cylinder by pressing straight down by hand until pin holes are aligned.

  8. Object Number: 176838  Size: SH
  9. Carefully tap in the reservoir retaining pins to secure the reservoir.
  10. Fill the master cylinder reservoir. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling.
  11. Install the brake fluid level sensor. Refer to Brake Fluid Level Indicator Switch Replacement.
  12. Remove the master cylinder from the vise.
  13. Install the master cylinder to the vehicle. Refer to Master Cylinder Replacement.