Small Billet Brake Reservoir, Fits Type 2 & Buggy Master

OVERVIEW

Elevate your air-cooled Volkswagen''s braking system with the EMPI Small Billet Brake Reservoir, a premium upgrade designed for enthusiasts who demand both form and function. Standard plastic reservoirs are prone to yellowing, cracking, and becoming brittle over decades of heat cycles, but this CNC-machined billet aluminum masterpiece is engineered to last a lifetime. Its compact profile makes it the absolute gold standard for custom Dune Buggy builds, Sand Rails, and tight engine bays where every millimeter of clearance counts. Whether you are finishing a show-quality restoration or building a rugged off-road machine, this reservoir provides a sleek, high-tech aesthetic that replaces the utilitarian look of factory components with a polished, professional finish.

Beyond its striking appearance, the EMPI 18-1015-0 is built for performance and reliability. It comes complete with a precision-threaded billet cap and a high-quality internal seal to ensure your hydraulic system remains pressurized and free from moisture contamination. This reservoir is specifically designed to mount directly onto Type 2 Transporter and Buggy-style master cylinders, eliminating the need for messy remote hoses and complicated mounting brackets in many applications. By choosing a billet aluminum housing, you are investing in a component that resists corrosion and provides a much more stable environment for your brake fluid, ensuring that your stopping power remains consistent whether you are cruising the strip or navigating the dunes.

FITMENT

This reservoir is designed for direct mounting on master cylinders typically found in the following applications:

• VW Type 2 Transporter (Bus): 1950 through 1966 models using the standard master cylinder configuration.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Fits most aftermarket "Buggy" style master cylinders with the vertical reservoir port.
• Meyers Manx & Kit Cars: Ideal for custom builds utilizing a Type 2 style braking setup.
• Custom Applications: Can be used in any project utilizing a master cylinder with a compatible inlet diameter and sealing surface.
• VW Beetle (Custom): Fits Beetle master cylinders that have been converted to the Type 2 direct-mount style reservoir.

SPECS

• Material: High-grade 6061-T6 Billet Aluminum.
• Finish: Bright machined polished aluminum for a show-ready look.
• Cap Type: Screw-on billet aluminum cap with knurled edges for easy grip.
• Seal: Includes a chemical-resistant internal gasket to prevent leaks.
• Dimensions: Compact "Small" diameter design for maximum clearance in tight chassis.
• Compatibility: Designed specifically for Type 2 and "Buggy" master cylinders.
• Part Number: EMPI 18-1015-0.
• Weight: Approximately 0.55 lbs, offering a lightweight yet durable alternative to cast units.

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Bench Bleed Before Installation. To ensure the best pedal feel and to save yourself hours of frustration, always bench bleed your master cylinder with the reservoir attached before installing it into the vehicle. This allows you to purge all air from the internal pistons of the master cylinder. Since this billet reservoir is compact, keep an eye on the fluid level during the bleeding process to ensure you don''t accidentally draw air back into the system as the fluid levels drop.

Pro Tip 2: Protect Your Polished Finish. Brake fluid is an incredibly effective paint stripper and can dull the finish of polished aluminum if left to sit. When filling your new billet reservoir, use a small funnel and keep a clean rag or some shop towels wrapped around the base. If you happen to spill any fluid on the exterior of the reservoir, clean it immediately with a dedicated brake cleaner or a mild degreaser and water to maintain that high-luster shine for years to come.

Pro Tip 3: Verify Your Master Cylinder Inlet Seal. While this reservoir includes its own internal cap seal, the connection between the reservoir and the master cylinder relies on a rubber grommet or seal typically found on the master cylinder itself. Before pressing the reservoir into place, inspect your master cylinder grommet for any signs of dry rot or cracking. If it isn''t perfectly pliable, replace it with a fresh German-quality rubber seal to ensure a leak-free connection that won''t fail under the vibration of off-road driving.