GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in the Preface section.

Notice: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in the Preface section.

  1. Remove the master cylinder from the vehicle. Refer to Master Cylinder Replacement .
  2. Secure the master cylinder in a vise. Do not clamp the master cylinder body, secure only at the flange.

  3. Object Number: 176836  Size: SH
  4. Remove the brake fluid level sensor. Using needle nose pliers, carefully depress the retaining tabs on the end of the brake fluid level sensor (1) and press the sensor through the reservoir to remove.

  5. Object Number: 176838  Size: SH
  6. Carefully tap out the reservoir retaining pins.
  7. Remove the reservoir from the master cylinder by pulling the reservoir straight up and away from the cylinder.
  8. Remove the seals from the master cylinder.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 744964  Size: SH
  1. Inspect the reservoir (1) for cracks or deformation. If found, replace the reservoir.
  2. Clean the reservoir with denatured alcohol, or equivalent.
  3. Dry the reservoir with non-lubricated, filtered air.
  4. Lubricate the new seals (2) and the outer surface area of the reservoir-to-housing barrels with Delco Supreme 11®, GM P/N 12377967 (Canadian P/N 992667) or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid from a clean, sealed brake fluid container.
  5. Install the lubricated seals (2), make sure they are fully seated.
  6. Install the reservoir (1) to the master cylinder, by pressing the reservoir straight down on the master cylinder until the pin holes are aligned.

  7. Object Number: 176838  Size: SH
  8. Carefully tap the reservoir retaining pins into place to secure the reservoir.
  9. Place the brake fluid level sensor into the reservoir, press into place to secure the sensor retaining tabs.
  10. Remove the master cylinder from the vise.
  11. Install master cylinder to the vehicle. Refer to Master Cylinder Replacement .