Brake fluid

[Michael G.]

I'm not sure what type of brake fluid is in one of my 63 cars. I'm about to replace a wheel cylinder, so I should probably have some on hand before I start. Is there an easy way to tell the difference? (color, etc)

Thanks,

[Terry M.]

Re: Brake fluid

I'm not sure what type of brake fluid is in one of my 63 cars. I'm about to replace a wheel cylinder, so I should probably have some on hand before I start. Is there an easy way to tell the difference? (color, etc)

Thanks,

Mike,
If the brake fluid in your Corvette is poly glycol fluid, any other poly glycol fluid is compatible. Poly glycol = DOT 3, DOT 4, & DOT 5.1. If the fluid in your brake system is silicone base = DOT 5, you must use a DOT 5 fluid to refresh your system.

Remove a tablespoon or so of fluid from the system. Suck some out of the master cylinder, or put a hose on one of the bleeders and drain into a small clear container. Add a similar quantity of water to the container of brake fluid. Cap the container and agitate vigorously. Set the container aside and enjoy a beverage of your choice. When you have consumed your beverage check the container. If there are two distinct types of fluid visible you have silicone DOT5. If there is a homogeneous milky fluid you have poly glycol brake fluid.

It is considered best practice to replace wheel cylinders in pairs; that is both rears or both fronts unless the entire system has been serviced recently. Replacing only one wheel cylinder can lead to uneven side to side braking efficiency and the car may pull (usually toward the newly replaced side) on brake application.

[Michael G.]

Re: Brake fluid

Thanks Terry, that's very helpful.

I bought four new cylinders, the current ones are all at least twenty-five years old, might be the originals. With a single master, you don't want to take a chance, so it can't hurt to replace them all.

[Joe L.]

Re: Brake fluid

Thanks Terry, that's very helpful.

I bought four new cylinders, the current ones are all at least twenty-five years old, might be the originals. With a single master, you don't want to take a chance, so it can't hurt to replace them all.

Michael------


If you have the originals, you could have them sleeved. With a stainless steel sleeve, they would thereafter be "immortal".

[Michael G.]

Re: Brake fluid

Joe, when get them out, I'll determine whether they're worth saving. I can always have them sleeved and save em for next time I dig into the brakes on one of the cars.