Thanks all for your input. I have to agree that a new MC is probably the way to go. About the cheapest one I've found online is about $209.

speedy72t-- I did check the lines but will definitely do it again. What a tight squeeze!!

Basically, I think about everything on this SL is original, so it probably would be a good idea to replace the lines as well. I know the tires are original (83,000 miles on the car) and they're next on the to do list. I was driving about 70 mph last week and started thinking--"What are you doing?" you're driving 70 mph on 30 year old tires!!! They may look good still, but they're still 30 years old!!!

Anyway-- thanks again-- a great site.