MC Push Rod Length

[clay124]

I have a new master cylinder that I'm getting ready to throw on but I noticed in my FSM that it states I need to check the push rod length using a master cylinder gauge. My question is how does everyone else check the push rod length? Is it even necessary anymore to check? I haven't seen any of these gauges in parts stores before.

Note: Brakes are all stock Festiva components.

[clay124]

Just to clarify, I know the push rod is part of the booster. I should have worded the title better.

[crazyrog17]

Might not be the most elegant solution, but you could head to the dollar store and snag some modeling clay. Put a little ball of it on the end of the push rod and mate the master cylinder to the booster. Take it off and see how thin it is, because you want it to JUST be pressing in on the piston. If it's still thick, then it's not long enough. If there's a lot of resistance when you mate the two and the clay is really thin, then it could be too long and you're depressing the piston at rest.

[clay124]

Thanks. That makes sense. I'm not the biggest fan of the ol' trial and error method