Breaks after standing for 4 months

[Jamiezt190]

Guys - I have a 1974 MGB that has stood for 4 months, dusted her off last weekend and the breaks are as sopongy as hell, I have to pump them to get any pressure.....is this a mechanical worry? or is it just a matter of more brake fuid?
Ta Jamie

[tr7v8]

Breaks???? I assume you mean brakes!

Yes it could just be a simple matter of fluid but I'd give them a good check over, it could be a sign of master cylinder failing. When replacing the fluid suck out as much from the reservoir before bleeding so you don't pump filthy fluid through the master seals.

[Old Merc]

The reason for spongy brakes is air in the system,its getting in somewhere?.So have a good check of the rear cylinders,calipers etc as they may be leaking.

[davepoth]

It'll be either water in the hydraulic fluid (hopefully) or knackered seals in the master cylinder (not so good)

[Magic919]

What is the past participle of break?

[Evangelion]

I left my MX-5 for 4 months and the brakes feel ok, but after a few miles noticed a funny smell, and if you feel the wheels 3 are just warm to the touch, the other though is quite hot! Had this problem with the track car too as it hadn't moved for a month or so before we bought it.
Cause is the same, a grabbing brake. Muck from the brake pipes as they deteriorate stays suspended while the car is being used, then if it sits still for a while settles in the lowest part and can enter the caliper causing it to stick.
On the track car we replaced that one pipe then replaced the fluid, on mine I think I'll replace them all with braided hoses. Bit pricey but should last the life of the car.

Would advise replacing the fluid even if there are no problems. Also remember to use the brakes gently for the first few miles as the discs are bound to have a light coating of rust.