Hydraulic Fluid Leak from Resevoir

[Stackthepilot]

The other day I was going to fly.  As I slid into my 1964 M20C I felt my left foot slide on what turned out to be Hydraulic Fluid.  I removed the cowl panel to expose the resevoir.  I felt the bottom of the resevoir and there was a little fluid in the area where the Parking Brake mechanism comes out of the bottom.  By the time I found time remove the panel and inspect the resevoir there appeared to be no additional leakage onto my floor board (I wiped it up after finding it).

My question is: There are 2 square head bolts on the resevoir.  A small one on top and a larger one on the side.  How do I properly check the fluid level in the resevoir?  What type of fluid would I use to replace this if it were low?

Why don't I have my mechanic do this?  The last time he had my Mooney it took 70 days for a couple of minor fixes.

Thanks, John

[scottfromiowa]

Your service manual will specify fluid and location.  You should get one if you do not own.  What about addressing the leak?

[Stackthepilot]

I ordered a service manual but received one for a G model.  Still waiting on correct one.

I wanted to check the level in the resevoir to see if that gave an indication of the level of the leak.  If the resevoir is empty or near empty I thought I would refill it, pump the brakes or flaps to create pressure hopefully finding the source of the leak.

I was just working on the first step.

[scottfromiowa]

Understand.  Small on top is for checking level/adding.  I have manual in plane, so don't know type, but NOT AUTOMOTIVE.  I (my A&P) am replacing all gaskets in pump and brakes at annual...as well as brake lines.  Good luck.

Scott

[Stackthepilot]

Thank you very much Scott!

[carusoam]

Look for standard mil spec hydraulic fluid in you manual, also known as cherry juice because of it's red color.  I don't think the c,d,e,f or g will use different fluids, but check your manual to be sure.

Search this board for other reasons the hydraulic flap/brakes leak.  The hoses and seals tend to leak after 40+ years....

-a-

 

[KLRDMD]

Quote: Stackthepilot

What type of fluid would I use to replace this if it were low?

[Ned Gravel]

John:

The other potentially unresolved issue from your post is the glaring need for access to someone who is not going to keep your airplane for 70 days to fix small issues.

 

[piperpainter]

Stackthepilot check your PM....if you give me your email i'll give you the manuals you need....