replacing brake fluid

[joepua]

I've been ready Kerry's instructions on how to replace the break fluid...

Mainly its the part where you drain a bit out first, then start filling before the reservoir gets too low... that way air won't get into the system..

Doesn't that mean the new will mix in with the old?

[daliumong]

I've been ready Kerry's instructions on how to replace the break fluid...

Mainly its the part where you drain a bit out first, then start filling before the reservoir gets too low... that way air won't get into the system..

Doesn't that mean the new will mix in with the old?

yeah, the old fluid will be a dark amber color, and the new one will be light amber. you keep bleeding the system until all the gross looking fluid comes out the caliper, and nothing but light amber come out. so yes, you will initially be mixing it, but eventually, the new will replace the old

[joepua]

alright great, thanks.

[jeremy_nash]

me and a few friends replaced our brake fluid last night, and it helps if you have 2 or 3 people, but one can do it. just remember to close the bleeder when you release the brake lever

[qwertydude]

You can also use a one man brake bleeder with the squeeze handle, it makes it really easy just loosen the bleeder on the caliper and attach the hose and pump the old fliud out, get it as low as possible without exposing the drain on the reservoir to minimize mixing and contamination.

[fred]

Get one of the vacuum brake bleeders. They're just a little hand powered vacuum pump, but they make life so easy. You just attach the vacuum hose to the bleeder valve, open it up and start squeezing. It will quickly suck all the brake fluid out without letting air back in. Just keep adding fluid at the top do you don't let air in and you'll be fine. It really helps to have a second person to add fluid while you operate the pump. Also, with the vacuum pump, getting air out of the system is pretty easy too. Just use teflon tape on the threads of the bleeder valve and apply vacuum while adding fluid at the reservoir until you stop getting bubbles. I've done it by myself like 4 times in the last 6 months and it really isn't that hard to figure out. Having the vacuum pump makes all the difference...

[allaussiegrown]

Make sure you pump the lever a few times then loosen the bleeder, then once the fluid moves out tighten it back and repeat. Other wise you when you release the lever it will just suck the fluid back up the line.

Get 1/4" tubing and attach it to the bleed and drill out the top of a bottle. makes life so much easier.

That pump sounds like a great idea.

Remeber old brake fluid is still good to use in a chlorine bomb. But play safely.

[commuterdude]

I cleaned my pistons/caliper when i replaced my pads.  All the old nasty brown fluid ran out thank goodness.  Re-filled with brand new fluid after cleaning the reservoir and wiping the little sight glass window clean.   It took a while longer to refill and bleed, but I got all the nasty brown old fluid out in one fell swoop.    Now my Front brake fluid is as clear and new as .... new fluid.    Cleaning the pistons improved my brake feel by 3000%.  I went from a super heavy pull to a two finger press.