Classic/Antique Car Repair: bleeding master cylinder, slow strokes, copper tube

Question
Hi Brad,you've helped me before,I sure hope you can help me this time.I rebuilt the master cylinder on my 1952 Ford.Installed it and the pedal just goes to the floor.Does the master cylinder need to be bled? If so,can you tell me how? Please be as specific as possible.I did this once about 45 years ago but don't even know where to begin.Thank you in advance for any and all help.Tom

Answer
Bench bleeding a master cylinder before installation saves a lot of frustration, brake fluid, and strings of nasty words. I make up a short section of copper tube with a fitting on one end that will screw into the outlet of the master cylinder. Then bend the tube so that it extends down into the reservoir. Mount the cylinder in your vise. Fill the reservoir with brake fluid and slowly push in on the master cylinder piston. Watch the air bubbles exit the tube. Pump as many slow strokes as needed to clear all the air out of the master, remove the line, install the cover, remove the cylinder from the vise and install on the car. the regular bleeding should clear the system of the remaining air.
Brad