Brake fluid reservoir leaking from cap

[jamestown]

I'm not sure where best to post this, but maybe the 1le forum will work as people that buy 1les probably like taking corners.

My brake fluid reservoir always has drips running down the side of it. I clean if off, and it happens again. At first I thought I just had it overfilled (even thought it was below the full line), but it is still doing it even thought the fluid level is about half way from min to max. I know the cap is supposed to breath, but it still seems a bit excessive and I worry about the paint below corroding. Anyone experience this or know of a work around?

[vinman]

Mine did that too, but after a few times of wiping and taking the cap off and on it has stopped....for now, lol

[eblanchette]

I had the EXACT SAME problem with my brand new 1LE.

The solution for me was as follows:

-Document the problem with dealership, let them change the cap.
-Take photos of the still leaking reservoir + send email to dealership asking for reservoir replacement.
-While waiting for the parts & appointment, install a separate reservoir for the clutch fluid.(I used the GTO reservoir)
-Have them install the brand new reservoir that comes capped from the factory(and is MUCH tighter)

I believe the combination of clutch press/depress + hard cornering causes the fluid to leak from their crappy stock reservoir. It was not leaking anymore just by installing the GTO mod, but I still had them install a new one because it is much nicer(and secure?) to have it capped from the factory.


Whatever you do, do it fast, or you will end up with fluid dripping out of the reservoir and eating out the paint on your brake booster.

[Hilflos]

This thread post #2 has a relevant TSB. It's something to keep an eye out for.

There have been several threads on various sub-forums regarding this issue, the paint damage that can result, etc.

[JimE]

Kit from JDP: http://www.jdpmotorsports.com/jdp-mo...s-zl1-jdpc1002

[jamestown]

Thanks for the responses. I am going to try shimming the stock cap before I deal with the dealership (I really hate going to the dealership). I don't think the reservoir itself is the problem as my motive bleeder hooks up and maintains pressure.

[jamestown]

http://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=367329

Pretty much /thread.

[snarky]

This worked for me.

[Camarotobeornottobe]

Based on the threads out there on this subject, I bought 42072 as a precaution. Definitely fits tighter than the stock gasket.

[jamestown]

Originally Posted by snarky

This worked for me.

I immediatly amazon'd this.

[camaro500]

Originally Posted by snarky

This worked for me.

This is the solution to the problem. Myself and many forum members have used this to fix the leaking cap. You would think GM would have made a design improvement since 2010 to address this issue

[eblanchette]

I sill believe the clutch fluid will get much more dirty than brake fluid.(if driven hard)

contamination might occur, that's why I went with the separate reservoir option.

[cdb95z28]

There is no issue with the reservoir leaking. The cap has a slit, any build up of pressure from heat, pushes some fluid out between the rubber diaphragm and the cap where it leaks down onto the reservoir. Pressure equalizes, slit seals up, no moist air enters the reservoir.



Go to my build thread for more info, starting at post #29 and then to post #57

http://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=395103

And yes, I have the Dorman 42072 and it has the slit

[cdb95z28]

Originally Posted by jamestown

http://www.camaro5.com/forums/showthread.php?t=367329

Pretty much /thread.

Skylane765's solution will ultimately work because his spacer blocks the slit, but the question remains:
-Why does GM put a slit in the cap diaphragm?