[DML] Re: 20 year old parts?

[Ann & Ed Thompson <RappaRivaRat@xxxx>]

> Tom Watkins wrote:
> 
> I don't think that DMC Houston or P.J. Grady is selling 
> a consumable part like a clutch M/C that's 20 years old. 

Apples and oranges, Tom. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a 20 year old NOS
clutch from anyone. However a master cylinder (that's what the thread
was all about) is quite different. Unlike a clutch, a master cylinder
has a number of rubber, or rubber-like, components that can and do
deteriorate with age, regardless of usage. Generally speaking, the 
deterioration and failure of those "soft components" is the primary 
reason why master cylinders are replaced in the first place. If you
are lucky and can find a master cylinder "rebuild kit", the "rebuilt"
master cylinder is usually as good as a brand new one unless you have
allowed moisture to get in the system. Then you have a pitting problem
with internal metal components and that is typically irreparable.

Regards,
Ed Thompson (#6419 since 1982)