3 replies to this topic

[flossy]

Hi, new to this so please be gentle!

Am restoring a 1980 clubman estate. Replaced all the brake system, including master cylinder, brake pipes, flexi hoses, everything (!) Have now put the engine in and connected battery. We get ignition lights and the engine tries to turn over but the brake pipe from the pressure valve thingy to the brass union on the front drivers side gets very hot within seconds. Doesn't happen when ignition key is turned to first position. Have checked for battery cable earthing to chassis but can't see it broken anywhere. Has anyone heard of this before as it's driving us crazy???

[MRA]

Check your earth cable from engine to shell.......... making sure that you have very good CLEAN & SECURE connections........... or get the burgers, sausages and lager and wait for the barbe

[Sprocket]

I have seen on more than one occasion the engine earth strap bolted to one of the master cylinder fixing studs. This is bad and potentialy dangerous as the master cylinder is isolated from the main body with a gasket. In certain cases the current from the alternator and starter motor actualy uses the brake lines as a conductor. The starter motor of course draws in excess of 150 amps while turning the engine over, resulting in the brake lines heating up. If it gets out of hand the brake lines will fail!!

[flossy]

Hi, thanks for advice. Reconnected earth lead - problem solved. Now trying to get fuel to carb - think fuel line is blocked.