is there anyone you can ask to try another master ???? to eliminate the possible problems ???
as for adding extra strips or stuff I would remove them and leave well alone,
instead of feeding the pipe back into a jar feed it back into the res' at least that way you dont have to keep topping up and waisting fluid.
DOT 5 fluid ??
Id be more than happy to help, brakes can be a pain in the .......
off the bike is always the best way
oh and what state is your pipe in ???