Brake Reservoir, Upper, Type 2 Bus 69-72

OVERVIEW

Maintaining the braking integrity of your vintage Volkswagen Type 2 Bus is paramount, especially when you consider that the upper brake reservoir is the primary staging area for your hydraulic fluid. Over decades of heat cycles and exposure to environmental contaminants, original factory plastic reservoirs inevitably become brittle, yellowed, and prone to hairline fractures. These microscopic cracks can lead to catastrophic fluid loss or, more commonly, allow moisture to enter the system, which lowers the boiling point of your brake fluid and causes internal corrosion in your master cylinder and wheel cylinders. This EMPI replacement upper reservoir is the definitive solution for restorers and daily drivers alike, ensuring that your hydraulic system remains pressurized and uncontaminated for years of reliable stopping power.

This EMPI Upper Brake Reservoir is precision-molded to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, providing a crystal-clear view of your brake fluid levels so you can perform safety inspections at a glance without even removing the cap. Designed specifically for the 1969 through 1972 model years, this unit features the correct outlet configurations to ensure a leak-free seal with your blue brake hoses. Whether you are performing a full frame-off restoration or simply refreshing your safety equipment, installing a fresh, high-density polyethylene reservoir is a critical step in preserving the legendary reliability of your air-cooled Bus. Don''t risk your safety or your VW''s value with a stained or patched original when a high-quality, period-correct replacement is available.

FITMENT

This upper brake reservoir is designed for the following Volkswagen Type 2 Bus models:

• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (All Models): 1969
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (All Models): 1970
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (All Models): 1971
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus (All Models): 1972
• VW Transporter, Kombi, and Campmobile: 1969-1972
• VW Single Cab & Double Cab Pickups: 1969-1972

SPECS

• Part Number: 211-611-309 (EMPI 98-1690-B)
• Material: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Plastic
• Location: Upper Mounting (Remote Reservoir)
• Fluid Compatibility: DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1 (Standard glycol-based fluids)
• Transparency: Semi-Transparent for easy fluid level monitoring
• Quantity: Sold Each
• Weight: 0.05 lbs
• Construction: Heavy-duty molded seams to prevent vibration-induced splitting

PRO TIPS

1. Replace the Blue Feed Hoses Simultaneously

Whenever you are replacing the upper reservoir, it is the absolute best time to inspect and replace the blue cloth-braided brake hoses that run down to the master cylinder. These hoses are specifically designed to resist the corrosive nature of brake fluid; standard fuel or vacuum lines will sweat fluid and eventually fail. If your reservoir is old enough to need replacing, your hoses are likely original as well. Installing new hoses ensures a tight, vacuum-sealed connection that prevents air from entering the master cylinder during the gravity-feeding process.

2. Avoid Over-Tightening the Mounting Hardware

While this EMPI reservoir is made from durable, modern plastics, the mounting points can be stressed if the mounting bracket or hardware is over-torqued. Hand-tighten your fittings and ensure the reservoir is seated squarely in its bracket. If your Bus still has the original metal retaining strap, ensure it hasn''t developed sharp edges over the years that could cut into the new plastic. A small piece of rubber or electrical tape on the inside of the strap can provide extra protection against vibration-induced wear.

3. Use Only Fresh, Sealed Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it actively absorbs moisture from the air the moment the seal is broken. When filling your new reservoir, always use a fresh, unopened bottle of high-quality DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid. Do not use fluid that has been sitting on your workshop shelf for months. Keeping moisture out of the system from day one will prevent the internal components of your master cylinder and calipers from pitting, which is the leading cause of brake system failure in air-cooled Volkswagens that aren''t driven daily.