JP Group Brake Master Cylinder, 23.81 mm, Non-ABS — VW Vanagon 1980–1991 (JP-3008-0)

Short answer: JP Group JP-3008-0 is a new 23.81 mm (15/16 in) tandem brake master cylinder for the VW Vanagon (Transporter T3) without ABS. EMPI lists it for 1979–1992 Transporters, which covers the 1980–1991 US Vanagon. It replaces OE 251 611 021 C; JP Group ref. 1161100700. Sold each.

Fitment

Fitment comes from EMPI, the US distributor for JP Group. If your van has had a brake conversion or a later booster swap, compare the bore size and mounting flange on your old cylinder before ordering. Send us your year, model and VIN if you want us to check.

Specifications

What's Included

• One brake master cylinder, as shown.

Not Included

• Fluid reservoir and reservoir grommets (reuse yours or buy new grommets).
• Brake booster, brake lines, brake light switches and brake fluid.

Why It Matters

The master cylinder turns pedal pressure into hydraulic pressure for both brake circuits. On a Vanagon that is 30-plus years old the seals inside wear and the bore pits, often because brake fluid was not changed often enough. Typical symptoms are a pedal that slowly sinks to the floor at a stop light, a pedal that feels soft even after a full bleed, fluid loss with no visible leak at the wheels (fluid leaks past the rear seal into the booster), or a brake warning light. Because the Vanagon is heavy and often loaded with camping gear, a tired master cylinder is a real safety problem, not just an annoyance.

JP Group is a Danish supplier that has specialised in classic Volkswagen and Porsche parts for decades, and EMPI distributes the range in the USA. We also list an IAP-brand cylinder to the same OE number 251 611 021 C; this listing is the JP Group version, so you can choose the brand you prefer.

Installation Notes

• Bench bleed the new master cylinder before you fit it. This saves a lot of time at the wheels.
• Siphon the old fluid out of the reservoir, then pull the reservoir off its grommets.
• Undo the brake lines and the brake light switch wiring, then the two nuts holding the cylinder to the booster.
• Check the booster pushrod adjustment; the new cylinder should not be pre-loaded by the pushrod.
• Fit new reservoir grommets, refill with fresh DOT 4 fluid and bleed the whole system, starting with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder.
• Follow the Bentley Vanagon manual for torque values and the bleed sequence, or have a qualified mechanic fit it. Test the brakes at low speed before driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this fit my 1985 Vanagon?
Yes, if it does not have ABS. EMPI lists the Transporter T3 (Vanagon) 1979–1992 without ABS; in the US that is the 1980–1991 Vanagon.

Is this the same as OE 251 611 021 C?
Yes. EMPI lists 251 611 021 C as the OE reference and JP Group 1161100700 as the maker's number.

What bore size is it?
23.81 mm, which is 15/16 inch, tandem (dual circuit).

Does it fit a Vanagon with ABS?
No. ABS-equipped vans use a different master cylinder.

Does it come with a reservoir?
No reservoir is listed. Reuse your reservoir and fit new grommets if the old ones are hard.

Is it new or rebuilt?
New JP Group part, not a rebuild. No core charge.

You also sell an IAP version, what is the difference?
Both are made to the same OE number 251 611 021 C. This is the JP Group (Denmark) brand supplied by EMPI; the IAP version is a separate listing. Pick the brand you prefer.

What else do I need?
Fresh DOT 4 brake fluid, and new reservoir grommets are a good idea. Bleed the whole system after fitting.

Explore Related Categories

VW Vanagon Parts · Brakes & Components · All VW Air-Cooled Parts

⚠ WARNING (California Proposition 65): This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.p65warnings.ca.gov. Parts are legal for use on pre-pollution-controlled vehicles only.