Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts

New OEM brake master cyclinder source

HammeredSole

Member
Original poster
Supporting Member
Joined
Sep 17, 2024
Messages
60
Location
Northern Georgia
I recently went down this rabbit hole during my 2004 TJ restoration, and happened across a source for NEW OEM Bendix brake master cylinders. When I got into tearing down my 2004 for the refresh, I discovered the original brake fluid looking like muddy water, and a rusty trail down the front of the brake booster. If you're familiar, the TJ tends to leak brake fluid through the main piston seal, which then leaks down the front of the booster, fills the booster with fluid, or if you're lucky both. I can't really blame MOPAR, as these are minimum of 20 years old.

When I looked into replacing the MC and booster, I came across the various discussions regarding OEM, sleeved, remanufactured, etc. master cylinders. The general consensus is now that OEM's are gone, and most resort to new units from China or remanufactured (sleeved in China). I was disappointed with this option, and actually found a new old stock OEM at Troncali Dodge in Cumming, GA. I had them pull the part and hold it, and they promptly sold it the same day to someone else (WTH!?) The search began again. I called dealers in the US and Canada, as well as MOPAR online parts dealers (which are generally just a dealer with a website) and I think it's official OEM NOS is gone.

I went to the local NAPA and ordered their "premium" parts. I received an obviously rust pitted and repainted booster, and a new master cylinder proudly named MADE IN CHINA. I let them keep the parts.

I then bought a non-rusted and fairly clean pair of components from a 2005 Rubicon on eBay. When they came in, I was disappointed but not surprised that the booster had about a pint of brake fluid in it, but nothing down the front and no rust. I went looking for a good remanufacturer in the US. I came across White Post Restorations, and they promptly told me parts are not available for the Bosch booster, and they only do restoration on classic car master cylinders. However, they did refer me to https://powerbrakeexchange.myshopify.com/, stating that they're much bigger than they were.

After an easy phone call, I sent the units in and waited. A week later I got a call letting me know the order was done. Roughly $220 shipped got me a rebuilt and repainted OEM booster, and a brand-new original BENDIX master cylinder. The owner was adamant that they never use "over sea's" parts, and said that they have sources for new parts still, but I'm not sure for how long that will last. He also offered to rebuild my send-in, but I don't need it. Power Brake Exchange has a very plain website, and seem to do most of their business over the phone. I'll post a follow up when I get the parts in hand and installed. I am just happy to have found a quality components, since I'm hoping to avoid annual replacements.
 
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Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ engine mounts