Brake flush and bleed...How much??

[ksmmspt]

I want to completely flush and bleed out my brake system. I don't think it has ever been done. How much brake fluid am I going to need to do the job? I know I will need to keep the reservoir full while bleeding the lines.

Any suggestions on a type of brake fluid? Thanks.

 

[MaxVO2]

Bleed until it comes out clear from all 4 lines. It took about a gallon on my 87 GN when I got it. It had never been changed, and it was filthy dirty.

Also ended up changing out the wheel cylinders with S-10 type, and put in an adjustable proportioning valve at the same time.

I used DOT 4 fluid by Valvoline. No special reason, it's what the shop had in stock. I drained the powermaster reservoir with a suction pump and cleaned the thing until it was dry. Added fluid, and started bleeding. Old fluid was black. New fluid is clear and the car stops noticeably better, especially after repeated stops.

Good luck

Billy
Montgomery Village, MD

 

[lynch crew]

brake fluid

I would get at least 2 quarts of fluid.You can use DOT4 fluid that it is not a problem.The only issues you will have in the future is the fact that DOT4 fluid breaks down more quickly than DOT3.DOT4 is used in alot of import vehicles,ie. VW's,BMW's,i think Mercedes also.All of these vehicles require a brake fluid flush once a year regardless of miles.The DOT4 has a higher temp rating ,but the disadvantage is it attracts more moisture than DOT3.As long as you flush the DOT4 once a year you will be fine.

 

[ksmmspt]

What is the best procedure to follow when flushing the system? Do you have to pump the brakes periodically? Etc...

 

[lynch crew]

brake flush

The best way and cleanest is to use a power flusher.They are pretty expensive and require shop air though.If you check around someone sells one that you pump by hand that is not that expensive.The power flushers have a hose that will attach to the brake bleeder.Follow the prcedure to remove the master cyl cap i think you pump the pedal like 20 times if the car still has the powermaster set up.Remove cap top off with fresh fluid.Start at the right rear.Loosen bleeder.If no fluid comes out you have a problem.Hook up the end of the hose and let the flusher suck out dirty fluid.Repeat this next is left rear,right front,finish with the left front.Just keep checking the fluid level in the master so it does not go to low while doing this.