Dual master cylinder conversion - reservoir mounting advice

[James Fitzsimons]

Hi all,

I've been on the brake system in my 356A coupe restoration project and have elected to go for a dual master cylinder conversion as an upgrade. I researched the various options before settling on using two 'C' ATE reservoirs as that seemed to be the most popular solution. There was some discussion on this forum on the various mounting options, and the one that seemed most logical to me was to mount the reservoirs to the firewall just above the master cylinder and below the steering column.

Before I go drilling three new holes in my car though, I thought I would get peoples advice as to whether there was a reason I shouldn't mount them here. I realise filling them will be a little inconvenient, but I'm prepared to put up with that to have them in an out of the way location so the car remains as stock looking as possible.

Here's the proposed mounting location:

Before anyone gets to confused - the car is RHD, and my lovely wife is helping holding the reservoirs while I take the photos

Your thoughts and feedback are appreciated!

[Jay Darlington]

this is how i did mine. i was thinking that this would be easy to check and fill, but i can't get the lines to stop leaking. i'm going to try and see if there is a reservoir that will fit right on top of the master cylinder. as i got to thinking about it, how many times do you need to put fluid in (very seldom). and to check, what every 6 months is easy just remove the cover over the steering box. or posibly turn the wheels hard to the left ( in your case) and look in at the reservoir from the back side of the tire.

Jay D.

[Jules Dielen]

I can only recommend the deluxe customs setup. It mounts under the service cover with the stock screws. Perfectly out of sight and no holes need to be drilled so it is 100% reversible.

https://shop.deluxecustoms.com/product- ... 114-00.htm

[Steve Proctor]

Jules, that is the best solution I have ever seen. I have hesitated on doing the change because of the reservoir mounting dilemma. Perfect solution!!

[Al Zim]

Over the years we have been exposed to a great deal of knowledge regarding the Dual Master Cylinder conversion. I am sure someone that answers the phone will be able to advise you correctly. Advice is FREE. Al Zim

[Vincent Canzanese III]

I mounted my reservoir on top of the Master Cylinder on my 59 T2 as Jay suggested. Not much difference from the stock setup as far as checking the fluid level. VW Bus used this method. Nice and neat and out of the way!

[Jay Darlington]

THATS what i want to do. so thats a buss reservoir? if so what year? and where can one get them?
THANKS Jay D.

[Hugo Karasawa]

There are many reservoirs to choose from
https://www2.cip1.com/search-results-pa ... 0reservoir

[Dave Erickson]

'68 Bus reservoir.

[Vincent Canzanese III]

EMPI 98-1694 Master Cylinder Reservoir, VW Type 2 Bus 1967 ONLY, 211 611 301E. This is the one I found on eBay from the v dub store. They provide measurements on the distance between the two reservoir outlets. There are several available so make sure measurements are correct.

[Jay Darlington]

THANKS SO MUCH Vincent for the detailed information.
Jay D.

[Dave Erickson]

Here is the one I bought. It said Ate on the side, so it was the real thing. Not sure if the current one is Ate, but the listing says it is German.
https://www.wolfsburgwest.com/cart/Deta ... 211611301E

You will also need grommets:
https://www.wolfsburgwest.com/cart/Deta ... 211611817A

[Hugo Karasawa]

Vincent,
What master cylinder are you using ?

[Vincent Canzanese III]

Hi Hugo. I used an OEM FTE Automotive brand M/C. The part number on the box was 113611015BD, that was close to two years ago and I see they are still available. It seems just like yesterday that I installed this M/C. The grommets that came with the unit fit the reservoir without issue.

[Al Zim]

If you place the reservoir where you can see it easily i.e. when the front deck lid is open you can check the level. Which is VERY important.