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View Full Version : Question Brake fluid top up - im confused


bambamjj
03-01-2011, 08:51 PM
Ok, i soon intend to replace my front calipers, when bleeding im going toi have to top up reservoir... but with what spec Brake fluid.... DOT4 or DOT5.1?

Please help.

Many thnaks in advance

Jon
a8 tech
03-01-2011, 09:02 PM
dot 4
bambamjj
03-01-2011, 09:12 PM
A8-Tech

Many thanks for response, Should have looked at cap on reservoir which im sure will tell me, but our local Halfords stated 5.1.

Many thanks

Jon
Crasher
03-01-2011, 09:13 PM
I use DOT 4.
STEWY L
03-01-2011, 09:13 PM
why are you changing the calipers please?
regards,
stewy.
bambamjj
03-01-2011, 09:33 PM
why are you changing the calipers please?
regards,
stewy.

Hi, im upgrading my 286mm Dia. (i think) front discs to 312mm dia. discs calipers etc.

Regards

Jon
phil miller
03-01-2011, 09:40 PM
Dot 4 or Dot 5, Dot 5 has a higher boiling point IIRC dot 4 for your car is what id use, as above
STEWY L
03-01-2011, 10:29 PM
if your current pads are worn down to near limit,
use a" hobby vice" or two self grip pliers with a piece of split garden hose
to clamp the brake hoses "closed".
open the bleed nipples on the caliper and force the pads back in with a bar/screwdriver.
disconnect hoses from caliper, and remove the caliper.
fit new discs/calipers and pads.
open bleed nipples on new calipers,release the "hobby vice" or self grips,
and wait for fluid to drip from nipples.
tighten up,check fluid level-won't need much at all i would have thought,and no bleeding,
regards,
stewy.
bambamjj
03-01-2011, 10:35 PM
if your current pads are worn down to near limit,
use a" hobby vice" or two self grip pliers with a piece of split garden hose
to clamp the brake hoses "closed".
open the bleed nipples on the caliper and force the pads back in with a bar/screwdriver.
disconnect hoses from caliper, and remove the caliper.
fit new discs/calipers and pads.
open bleed nipples on new calipers,release the "hobby vice" or self grips,
and wait for fluid to drip from nipples.
tighten up,check fluid level-won't need much at all i would have thought,and no bleeding,
regards,
stewy.

Stewy, thanks for advice, unfortunately my 3rd attempt at this mod ended up fitting new pads so not much wear at all but will try this principle any way. Thanks

Jon