[DeTomaso] Master cyl to booster rod adjustment

[JDeRyke at aol.com]

Mikael, in some cars the brake master cylinder internal parts or the 
casting itself might be a little different than others, especially if non-stock 
master cylinders have been adapted. That means the factory dimensions will get 
you close..... usually. The simplest way to set rod length is to untighten 
the two brake master cylinder mounting nuts a few turns. 
If the master cylinder pops away from the booster, the rod should be 
shortened by the amount the cylinder moved away, or washers placed between the 
booster and master cylinder mount ears. If the master does not move and you 
wish to remove as much slack as possible from the brake's mechanical linkage, 
the connecting rod should be slightly lengthened.
The reason for all this is, if there's even a slight pre-load on the brake 
master's piston, the master cylinder's fluid return drilling may 
inadvertantly be covered, restricting or closing entirely that tiny port. Then when you 
step on the brakes, they will progressively lock up as fluid goes into the 
system but cannot get back to the reservoir. This also may happen when the 
front sheet metal expands from radiator heat and clearances change slightly. 
If it happens, the only way to relieve line pressure is to crack a brake 
line. Good luck- J DeRyke