Time for plan "B"

Two and a half weeks ago, after Billy and I finished removing the wood from the grain box flatbed, we added brake fluid to the stuck master cylinder. The hope was that letting fresh fluid (the cylinder was bone dry) sit in the reservoir would loosen it up. A week later, I added a cinder block, applying pressure to the brake pedal, trying to help the brake work free.

The cinder block on the brake pedal. Yes, it's resting on a sled.

Two and a half weeks of fluid, one and a half weeks of steady pressure on the master cylinder and nothing. Still stuck. Plan "B" is to try to rebuild the cylinder, which is a much more cost effective solution than replacing it. Rock Auto offers a rebuild kit for my master cylinder for $20 shipped, and I now have the K/KB line service manual, which has a detailed diagram of how everything goes together. Looks like a fairly simple task - we'll see...

The master cylinder (on the right), held on by just a few bolts

In the above picture, you can also see the only real rust damage on Big Red. The floor boards will need to be patched at best, and replaced at worst. Finally, I've got my eye on an eBay auction that ends tonight. I'll let you know if I win it, and what the prize is... Cross your fingers for me!