Well, the goal was simple. My dad’s 88 convertible I’m restoring hasn’t ran since 2008, leaked out all its fluid from reservoir. Ordered some new seals and had a terrible experience getting the reservoir off.

And I knew it was gonna happen. *snap*

So, I’m headed to online parts adventure. But thought I would post my fail and take any recommendations on a new reservoir.

Thanks friends!

 

So to my surprise, I can get the whole cylinder and reservoir for less than I expected.

Question: I found this one on rockauto, but compared to mine, it’s got an extra output? Is there a plug or something I can screw in? Otherwise it’s spot on exact replacement.

 

I think the fluid level sensor goes there in the extra hole.
Look around the wire harness area for an extra connector not being used.
Maybe verts don't come with those? Is there a brake light on the instrument cluster? This could also clue you in.

 

The fluid level is the sensor with the pigtail in the RockAuto pic.

 

Convertibles do not have the Auto Adjust Suspension AAS. the AAS has an extra brake pressure sensor.

 

Yeah. My reservoir has the sensor wires. And the one I found on rockauto has the correct connector type.

Meanwhile it occurred to me. Since it’s not a port I use, maybe I can just “plug” it. And a quick search later… viola.

I think that’s gonna be my plan. Replace everything with the one from RA. Then plug the bottom that’s not used on my car.

 

That's interesting. The S4 NA MC has 2 p/n's listed -- one with AAS and one w/o AAS. The S5 NA MC has only one p/n listed. I have a GXL that came with AAS that I deleted. My MC didn't have that extra port. Mazda must have changed the AAS design going from S4 to S5.

 

they did, AAS got simplified for S5

 

Getting closer. Found this cylinder on rock auto which is a match. However the reservoir’s “connector” is different.

I’m thinking snip snip splice splice?
Thoughts?

 

Just reuse your original level sensor. No snipping and splicing required.

 

I was looking at that briefly yesterday. It doesn’t appear I can just take the wires out of the reservoir. I’ll look again and see. It’s broken anyways. Can’t make it worse! lol

 

It should come out without much effort. Refer to this photo: https://www.atkinsrotary.com/86-92-r...1-43-540-.html

 

Cool! I’ll give it a tug and see if I can get it! Thanks for the link!

 

Just messaging/closing the post. I found the correct master cylinder on Rockauto. And yes, was able to just simply swap my fluid level sensor from the original to new quite easily.

Thanks!