| From | Message |
andrew
Dodge Dakota
10/06/2001
00:16:30
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 Subject: brake question
IP: Logged
Message:
It looks like I'll be awake for quite some time and my brain is working overtime. can someone tell me how to get the old, dirty fluid out of my brake system without putting air bubbles in the lines. I would really, really, really, really appreciate it. Really, I would.
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Muzzy
Dodge Dakota
10/06/2001
07:43:03
|  RE: brake question
IP: Logged
Message:
Andrew-
Go down to your local auto parts store. Buy a vacuum pump kit and large bottle of DOT3 brake fluid. Together, they should cost no more than $40.
Pump your brakes a few times and then hook the vacuum pump up to the bleed valve on your caliper. Pump the vacuum pump a few times to build up some vacuum and then use a wrench to open the bleed valve. Keep pumping the vacuum pump to draw the fuild into the container that you assembled with the pump kit. Most of the kits come with a clear or opaque container so you can see the fuild. When you get about half a container full, close the bleed valve (maintain vacuum pump pressure while closing the valve to prevent air backing into it) and add more fuild to the reservoir. Repeat this process on all calipers and wheel cylinders until the fuild flowing into the vacuum pump container looks clean. Then you are done.
One last tip - If your brakes are older, hit the bleed valves with some penetrating oil about .5 hours before you start. That way you don't risk breaking them off if they are a little rusty.
-Muzzy
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Bruce P
Dodge Dakota
10/06/2001
20:46:13
|  RE: brake question
IP: Logged
Message:
I have been vacuum bleeding brake, clutch... etc systems for over 10 years.
STEP1) Remove all fluid from the resivour with the vacuum pump and re-rill with new fluid. (This DOES NOT introduce air into the system if the brake-pedal is NOT touched during this process.)
STEP2) Start at the wheel FARTHEST from the mastercylinder.
ALSO:
Observe any "special" conditions such as proportioning valves and balancing valves. Also... some ABS systems CANNOT BE BLED without using very special tools to re-route the fluid around the accumulators.
When using a vacuum pump to bleed the brakes. I find it worthwhile to REMOVE the bleeder nipples and put some REAL teflon tape on the threads. (Plastic may disolve in brake fluid.)
This serves 2 purposes.
1) You do not suck air around the threads during the bleeding process. (Although this does not introduce air in the hydrolic system... it 'leaks' your vacuum instead of bleeding the system.)
2) Next time you are there the bleeder nipple will open easier. (instead of BREAK OFF!)
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