Brake Fluid Yeah its exciting Brake Fluid Specially

Brake Fluid Yeah, it’s exciting…

Brake Fluid • Specially blended hydraulic fluid that transfers pressure to the wheel brake assemblies • Rated by the SAE and DOT – SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) – DOT (Department of Transportation)

Fluid Types • • • DOT 3 – 401/284 F DOT 4 – 446/311 F DOT 5 – 500/356 F DOT 5. 1 – 518/374 F DOT 3, 4, 5. 1 basically the same DOT 5 is silicone based and not compatible

Fluid cont. • Most passenger vehicles use DOT 3 or DOT 4 – look on reservoir cap • Some performance cars use DOT 5, 5. 1, or may have special spec • Don’t mix fluid types

Which are the most common? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. DOT 1 and 2 DOT 2 and 3 DOT 3 and 4 DOT 4 and 5 DOT 5 and 6 DOT 5. 1 and 5. 2

Brake Fluid • Brake fluid must have the following characteristics: – correct viscosity at all temperatures – high boiling point – noncorrosive – water tolerant – lubricates components – low freezing point

Viscosity means: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. How a fluid reacts under pressure A fluids compressibility factor The fluids resistance to flow It’s boiling temperature It’s freezing point None of the above

Brake Fluid (cont) • Miscibility – the ability to mix with similar fluids • Hygroscopic – the ability of a substance to attract water (moisture) from the surrounding environment

Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air at the rate of about 2% per year. As the brake fluid absorbs water, its boiling temperature decreases.

Brake fluid should be replaced: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Once a year At every oil change Twice a year Every other year In March With power steering fluid Brake fluid should not be replaced

Brake Fluid Precautions • • • Keep off painted surfaces, wiring, and plastics Keep container closed Do not reuse old fluid Do not mix DOT 3 or 4 with DOT 5 Wear proper gloves when handling Wash immediately if it gets on skin

Brake Fluid and Paint

Why keep brake fluid in a closed container? 1. It likes the dark 2. It absorbs moisture 3. It will evaporate 4. It has viscosity 5. None of the above