recently on my 85 trans am the brake light came on. the pedal now feels a little softer when applied. I need help in figuring out what triggered the light, and how to fix it. im scared its the master cylinder-do i have to replace it?
the car has four wheel disc and dot 5 silicon fluid.-if that matters. thanks for any imput.

 

Sounds to me like the master cylinder (not a big deal to replace)

The light usually comes on when due to a loss of pressure. Have you checked the fluid level, are you loosing any? If not, probably the master. If so, check for leaks around the master and in the brake lines and calipers. You can also hold down the brake pedal and see if it the pedal continues to drop.

Hope this helps

 

thank you, no there is no leak and the fluid is clean and full. so i guess its the master. -do you think a master cylinder from a junk yark would work.

 

A rebuilt one from a local parts store would run you in the area of $40, with a warrantee (at least that's what I found around here in CT).

With a used one from the junkyard, you run the risk of putting it together and finding the seals to be bad. If the seals are allowed to dry out that may damage them.

I've used many a used part on my trucks with few problems but with brakes I always try to go new/rebuilt. Much safer.

Good luck.

 

Just a question, why silicon fluid?