Yes.  I've replaced Vanagon Master cylinders by removing the instrument
cluster and unbolting them from the brake booster.  Of course, you have
the brake light wires and, if you have a clutch, the hose to its master
cylinder.

Mike

John Graham wrote:
> I recently had a local shop replace my front brake pads and am enjoying the
> renewed braking performance.  However I recently also noticed that when I
> have come to a stop in traffic, sitting there with my foot on the brake
> (auto transmission) that the car will begin to creep forward and I can then
> press a little harder (the pedal goes down a slight bit) and of course the
> van stops.
>
> There doesn't appear to be any brake fluid loss, so my diagnosis is that
> the
> seals in the master cylinder have aged to the point of leaking a little.
> I've rebuilt master cylinders in my younger days, but given the criticality
> of the master cylinder, I think spending ~$100 at the Bus Depot for a new
> one would be the right call for me.
>
> Now for my question:  The Bentley Manual shows the master cylinder and
> booster unit configuration.  But doesn't give any guide if you're just
> going
> to replace the master cylinder unit.  I've taken the instrument cluster off
> before, so doing that's not a big deal.  Once that is off, is it
> possible to
> unbolt the master cylinder from the back of the booster without further
> disassembly of the dashboard??  If so, I'll tackle this one, if not
> then, we
> go back to the shop.
>
> John Graham
> 88 Westy in Charlotte - 147,000 miles on first set of heads (I think) -
> I do
> change that coolant periodically.
>