Will dot 3 brake fluid damage paint8/10/2023 ![]() Most brake fluids used today are glycol-ether based, but mineral oil ( Citroën/ Rolls-Royce liquide hydraulique minéral ( LHM)) and silicone-based (DOT 5) fluids are also available. It works because liquids are not appreciably compressible. It is used to transfer force into pressure, and to amplify braking force. It is mostly in their head.Hydraulic fluid used for braking applicationsīrake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used in hydraulic brake and hydraulic clutch applications in automobiles, motorcycles, light trucks, and some bicycles. But, it is so small of a difference that only the very, very, very best drivers can feel it. Some very high-end synthetic DOT 4 and 5.1 synthetic fluids can give a better pedal. Some have said that they have noted a better pedal feel with synthetic fluids. But, it is the additive package and environment that has the greatest impact on life span, no matter what type of base stock.Ħ. Synthetic fluid might be able to last a little longer because the fluid can absorb more water before the fluid drops below a critical boiling point. Compared to conventional fluid what life span can be expected from synthetics? If your base stock and additives are of higher quality, chances are that they will not break down as easily as low-quality ingredients.ĥ. ![]() When there is corrosion, it is a sign that the brake fluid’s anti-corrosion additives are depleted. The more copper that is present, chance are greater that corrosion is happening in the system. But, it is an indicator of the state of the brake fluid. copper can be a problem for ABS and some valving. Now that it is known that copper contamination is the main reason that brake fluids degrade, what property do synthetics have to address this problem?Ĭopper comes from the copper brazing in the walls of the hard brake lines. So, if you perform a good flush, the rubber parts and the system should be OK.Ĥ. Also, they will not react when it is mixed. It will lump together somewhere in the system. Polyethylene glycol-based fluids (conventional or synthetic) will not mix with silicone fluid (DOT 5). Technically it should not damage the rubber parts. Silicone is an inert substance, this is why it is safe for breast implants. Can synthetics be mixed where DOT 5 silicone was used or is it recommended that the rubber be replaced when changing back? If you have an older vehicle and are worried about boiling the fluid, use DOT 4 or 5.1 brake fluid.ģ. If the brake fluid becomes unable to control the pH or other corrosive elements, the rubber and metal parts will deteriorate over time. The additive package controls the pH of the fluid and the viscosity. What kills rubber parts is when the additive package breaks down. Even if an older rubber part that has a high concentration of natural rubber, they will not be damaged by new DOT rated brake fluids. Also, the additive packages will not damage or distort any rubber parts. All polyethylene glycol-based fluids will not harm healthy rubber parts. What is the compatibility between synthetics and conventional DOT 3 and 4 in most vehicles? Is a complete flush with new rubber a better choice? Is there any chance of seal swelling or disintegration in older vehicles say from the 1930s, 1940s or even in the 1960s?Īll DOT 3, 4 and 5.1 brake fluids are compatible with each other and with all systems. But, don’t confuse Dot 5 with synthetic polyethylene glycol-based fluids like DOT 5.1.Ģ. To meet the performance criteria, it takes a synthetic or really good conventional base stock. This is a mixture of anti-corrosion, anti-foaming and other secret chemicals that give the fluid the desired performance characteristics for operation in vehicles.ĭOT 5.1 is a high-performance certification (higher temps than DOT 5). To the base stock they add the additive package. Almost every synthetic brake fluid manufacturer does it different. They could make the chains longer or add other molecules to enhance the performance. But, to make synthetic brake fluid the manufacturer will “synthesize” the original base stock and make the molecules better and more consistent. Both synthetic and conventional brake fluids start from the same “polyethylene glycol” stock. Simple, it all comes down to the base stock. What are the fundamental differences between synthetic fluid and conventional DOT 3 and 4? I like a challenge, so here are my answers.ġ. ![]() Mike Evangelo of Dynamic Motorsports and Rossion Automotive e-mailed me with six questions about brake fluid. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply.AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |