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Brake fluid info...
Some people are talking about using racing fluid (DOT5) in their brake systems. I would not and this is why:
There are 3 ratings, DOT3, DOT4, DOT5. 3&4 are glycol based and 5 is silicone based. Glycol based fluids are hygroscopic, which means they can absorb moisture. Silicone based is not. Any moisture in the system will collect in the lowest points of the system. The moisture winds up in the wheel cylinders and calipers. DOT 5 should not be used in ABS systems because the water can collect in the valves of the ABS system, corroding them and rendering them inoperative. Dot 5 is also more prone to trapping air in the fluid, especially when agitated, as happens in an ABS hydrolic controller or pump.
If you are going to use DOT5, at least change it often. DOT4 is good enough and way less to worry about.
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4th year apprentice mechanic.
Last edited by 06vitzRS; 12-25-2008 at 10:44 PM.
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