Do I need to bleed master cylinder if using vacuum?

[rcx106]

The factory manual for my Vitara says to bleed the master cylinder (if it's been disturbed) then bleed the brakes. Then it gives the usual procedure of pumping the pedal while your friend opens the nipple etc. It also gives the order in which to bleed the system, starting at the rear.

Question is this. Do I need to bleed the master cylinder if I'm using a vacuum pump to bleed the system? The manual says that bleeding the master cylinder is to "facilitate" bleeding the brake system which doesn't sound obligatory. Also it says to bleed the master cylinder by putting your finger over the output hole to act as a valve and then depress the pedal. Sounds like regular bleeding to me!

Anyway, I don't have a buddy who can help so I'm hoping this isn't necessary and I can just use my vacuum pump and do it on my own.

[andyiley]

If that is the way it says to do it, it could be for very good reason.

Some ABS systems are notoriously difficult to bleed when they get air in them.

The reason it says that could be to ensure this does not happen.