57 Master Cylinder

[Michael K.]

This is the master cylinder that is on my 57. I do not believe it is correct. The number on the side is punched in and not even close. It is # 4 4483, and it should have casting # 5456022. The cap is also incorrect. Does anyone know what this originally fit, or is it an aftermarket replacement? Looks like I have to buy a NOS one ($350), or find a used one and rebuild it.

[Roy B.]

Re: 57 Master Cylinder

After market and the ballaster is also

[George W.]

Re: 57 Master Cylinder

I am seriousley thinking of "resto modding" my '57, if this happens, the master cylinder (and a bunch of stuff will be for sale. Do you need this in a hurry? G.

[Michael K.]

Re: 57 Master Cylinder

George, I was hoping to get started on it in a couple of weeks . I would like to have it ready by the beginning of May. I am planning on redoing the hydralic portion of the brake system (lines, hoses, etc.).

[Michael K.]

Re: 57 Master Cylinder

Thanks Roy! I should take some more pictures. I am sure there are plenty more things that you can point out for me. Anything I should know about the ballast resistor when I get a new one? Paragon lists one for $20 and one for $7. I am assuming that the more expensive one is closest to original. CC lists their's as 'black dot'. What does that mean?

[John H.]

Re: 57 Master Cylinder

Mike -

The $20 version of the ballast resistor from Paragon is as close as you're going to get to correct. The master cylinder in the photo is an aftermarket replacement, probably Bendix, Borg-Warner, EIS, etc.

[Roy B.]

Re: 57 Master Cylinder

No one I know of sells the correct Ballaster! close but no cigar, there are people here that know what is right or wrong on various parts (we all have our pet pee about certain parts) but I think I'm safe in saying no one knows about all parts. You like every one els needs to locate that person that really knows what is and isn't correct on SOME items no matter what year Corvette they have. I've found people that really know about a certain part , but only one or two parts, then I try to find the person that really knows another part.
That in my opinion is how to go about gathering formation to get my Corvette 100% real and replacing any repro parts that I may have used . That is the reason the JM keeps changing!!