Bleeding brakes, not working 1997 E300D

[jmbeam]

I have an 1997 E300D. I recently replaced the brakes and rotors and decided to replace the old brake fluid. I bleed the brakes until the fluid was clear. I bled each brake however when I dive the car I need to pump the brakes to build up the required pressure to stop the car.

I have bled brakes before and never had this problem. The brake system worked fine before I replaced the parts and cant see how the master cylinder would go bad at this time.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks

[glenmore]

When bleeding brakes, be sure the rear compartment of the reservoir is full of fluid too. Make sure car is on level ground and reservoir full to the top and bleed again.

[jmbeam]

What do you mean rear compartment? I made sure the level never got low.

[rocky raccoon]

is the only way to go for an ABS car. Motive Products sells an excellent one for less than the equivalent of 30 minutes labor at a mechanic.

[Ferdman]

jmbeam, the master cylinder has front and rear chambers. Both must remain filled to ensure air doesn't get entrapped in the brake lines.

[jmbeam]

There is no way I would let one side get low and not the other especially when the chambers are right next to each other, so that is definitely not a cause.

I used a cheap Harbor freight hand presser unit when I did the initial bleed. Thought it did a good job but still need to pump brakes to stop the vehicle.