Brake fluid

[Paul-FcWag]

Hi all

Just wondering the best brake fluid to use for an fe still with drums.
Not too sure if there are different types or if there all pretty standard.
Thanks
Paul

[Glenn 'Stinky' Stankevicius]

There's DOT4 and DOT5? Two main DOTs anyway ::).
One is the usual hydroscopic (absorbs water and eats paint) and the other is the comparatively expensive silicone fluid. The silicone stuff would be a good option for a weekend car as there is less chance of damage to lines when the car is left sitting.
I am sure Ken would have a heap more info than me though.

[Paul-FcWag]

Thanks very much

[fastjbav6]

You need different quality seals if using the silicone fluid other wise you will have brake failure i've been told.

Seb

[mcl1959]

It's actually the opposite, the silicone fluid finds its way through the smallest gaps and occasional use will almost certainly provide leaks more quickly in a Silicone system.
Other problem is that Silicone fluid CANNOT be mixed with the old stuff.  So EVERY cylinder has to be pulled down and cleaned along with the line being flushed out before you put the Silicone fluid in

Ken

[Papa Smurf]

Was talking to a heavy duty mechanic friend & he's no big fan on silicone fluid, in his line of work seems to do more harm than good, he suggests Agip fluid over all the other brands as it dosen't seem to degrade especially after a long periods of sitting idle, ideal from the weekend/monthly driver

Cheers Blue ute