Yes they should last longer but intermittent use allows for some rust to
form in the cylinder barrel between the piston cups and outer boot. Then
when the piston does move the leaks begin.

Also depending on brake shoe material you may be ready for brakes anyway.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
neil N
Sent: Thursday, September 03, 2009 6:33 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: *Sigh* Leaky Wheel Cylinder (PICS)

Hi all.

Haven't checked other side yet, but both sides done at same time.
Parts less than 3 years old. Low miles. Fluid has been flushed at
least once in that time.

Stupid question, but am I correct to assume there should be absolutely
NO fluid under rubber caps?

IMO, there's no way they should be leaking yet.

Brake wheel cylinders should be good for more than 20-30K miles right?

Leak (only a little dripped out.... wiped stain up a little):

http://tinyurl.com/l9wn6x

Brand

http://tinyurl.com/n96jzg

Looks like "Varga IND BRAS. Likely Brazillian.

If anyone knows which brand will *likely* be better, please advise.
Especially any Vancouverites.

If the Varga brand has been problematic, (or NOS of Varga?) please
advise. I will, in turn, let my parts guy know.

Not a happy camper. In spite of a recent post of mine, it seems like
one thing after another.

Ready to send it to the shop, (long line to rear needs to be replaced
too) so knowing a good brand will help.

Thanks.

Neil.

--
Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"

http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engine
s