The LHM return from the two rear hydraulic rams is through a plastic pipe that runs across the car between the two cylinders, and has a T-piece near the centre which connects to a pipe that runs back to the reservoir. I need to change that pipe that runs between the cylinders. However, I can't free the T-piece from the socket that it plugs into.
The socket has a blue square on each of two opposite sides, which may be the key to this. Am I supposed to squeeze them together, or are they supposed to be levered out? I just can't figure this one, and I certainly don't want to break it.
Can anyone help explain this?
Mark
C5 Mk1 estate - how to change rear hydraulic return pipe
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MagicMark
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mickthemaverick
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Re: C5 Mk1 estate - how to change rear hydraulic return pipe
I don't know if this will apply to your case but it is worth a watch in case you can do something similar instead of a complete replacement of your pipe. 
I used to be indecisive, now I'm not so sure!
I used to ride on two wheels, but now I need all four!
I used to ride on two wheels, but now I need all four!
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MagicMark
- Posts: 34
- Joined: 15 Feb 2024, 16:44
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Re: C5 Mk1 estate - how to change rear hydraulic return pipe
Thank you, Mick, a fascinating video.
In my case, the pipe which is leaking is the return pipe just above the nearside wheel, so it's the plastic cross pipe, rather than the longitudinal one. I did consider fixing it in similar manner to the video, but on plastic, not metal. However I was able to obtain a "new old stock" component, so I can replace it properly.
Unfortunately, whilst removal of the pipes from the suspension boots is straightforward, I can't see how to extract the centre connector from the longitudinal pipe. It's awkward to reach, and I really don't want to go and break it. Therefore I thought it better to ask for help, rather than risk damaging it.
Mark
In my case, the pipe which is leaking is the return pipe just above the nearside wheel, so it's the plastic cross pipe, rather than the longitudinal one. I did consider fixing it in similar manner to the video, but on plastic, not metal. However I was able to obtain a "new old stock" component, so I can replace it properly.
Unfortunately, whilst removal of the pipes from the suspension boots is straightforward, I can't see how to extract the centre connector from the longitudinal pipe. It's awkward to reach, and I really don't want to go and break it. Therefore I thought it better to ask for help, rather than risk damaging it.
Mark
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MagicMark
- Posts: 34
- Joined: 15 Feb 2024, 16:44
- x 3
Re: C5 Mk1 estate - how to change rear hydraulic return pipe
Hah! Solved!
The trick was to place one blue button against the cross-member, which then gave enough space to press firmly on the other blue button. The cross-feed pipe then popped out.
Also another trick I found - removing the plastic pipe from the clips which hold it to the cross-member and other places - a square rod such as goes between two household door handles was just the right size to pop the clips without damage. Press it in, pull it and the pipe out.
Mark
The trick was to place one blue button against the cross-member, which then gave enough space to press firmly on the other blue button. The cross-feed pipe then popped out.
Also another trick I found - removing the plastic pipe from the clips which hold it to the cross-member and other places - a square rod such as goes between two household door handles was just the right size to pop the clips without damage. Press it in, pull it and the pipe out.
Mark