This is the first time I have needed to top off the fluid and I can't get the damn thing off.
Its the 2nd design, I'm turning it counter-clockwise, but I'm afraid I'm going to break it.
The plastic brace for the resevoir is twisting, so I'm trying to brace it the best I can.
Anybody ever have this problem? I'm I a complete idiot and twisting it in the wrong
direction? Got any ideas how to get it off?

For some reason they get very tight. I've used a pair of channel lock pliers to get mine off. Grip the cap tight enough to to turn it, but don't grip to tight and break the plastic cap or the master cylinder housing.

Use 2 channel lock pliers, hold the base carefully with one to keep it from twisting then twist the cap off with the second pair. You're right, those caps are a bear to remove, just don't torque them down tight and you'll be ok the next time.

Thanks guys,
I will give the two channel locks a try tomorrow.
I love this forum, ask a question, get an answer within minutes!!

Same thing happened to me. I used a Round Wrench to hold the reservoir (handle with a rubber strap).

I'm not sure why they get so tight. I make a habit of removing it every time I open the front lid. It's gotten stuck on be a couple of times. It's like .... spooky.

quote Originally posted by jetman: Use 2 channel lock pliers, hold the base carefully with one to keep it from twisting then twist the cap off with the second pair. You're right, those caps are a bear to remove, just don't torque them down tight and you'll be ok the next time.

What he said

Me too! Got an 88 that is stuck right now. Will try the strap wrench trick ion the AM. Amazing what you can learn on here....lol

quote Originally posted by jetman: Use 2 channel lock pliers, hold the base carefully with one to keep it from twisting then twist the cap off with the second pair. You're right, those caps are a bear to remove, just don't torque them down tight and you'll be ok the next time.

I second that also. Just did my a couple days ago.

I'm not sure what makes the cap get so tight. But I'm guessing the hydraulic fluid makes the rubber seal expand.

Anyway, I've gotten into the habit of twisting it on very lightly. It seems to be working.

Righty tighty, lefty loosy...