the 78 cutlass salon I just bought has an issue with the brakes.

when I parked it in the shed of the previous owners 4 years ago, it had good firm pedal. when I drove it home this past week, the pedal went to the floor,and would not pump up and hold. I checked the fluid level, it was full, and no leaks visible on the wheels. could the master cylinder have gone bad from sitting?

Hi Jeff's 78 Cutlass Salon,

Welcome to TOC


Yes. Hydraulic seals deteriorate with age, as well as use. Master and wheel cylinders, along with calipers, should be either rebuilt or replaced.

Fluid should be replaced when the system is bled.

Regards, Norm

thanks for having Me !!
I have a good one on another car I can use.
I may blow the lines out with air, then refill with new fluid.I'll replace wheel cylinders, and any other parts that may be suspect