8 replies to this topic

[matt050990]

Hi,

 

Bit of a stupid question,

 

What type of brake fluid do I need for my 1978 850?

 

I normally just check Dot 4 in there but after reading the spec it says it for discs up front and drums on rear or discs all round.

 

I have never had any problems in the past but thought I would check before buying more....

 

Cheers

[HarrysMini]

It should be DOT 4. When was it last changed? If more than 2 years ago, it needs replacing.

[matt050990]

I flushed the system about 6 months ago but had a leak so it needs refilling

ill get some more dot 4 then.

Cheers

[gazza82]

You don't get any new cars with drum brakes at the front now, so they don't bother putting it on the bottle/can.

 

Don't buy a lot as once opened it has a short shelf life ... it absorbs water so once the seal is broken that process starts. Same in the car so it recommended you flush it completely with new fluid about every two years.

[Anthony30]

I use AP Racing DOT 5.1 mineral. Bit OTT really.

[Tamworthbay]

I use AP Racing DOT 5.1 mineral. Bit OTT really.

is that one compatible with Dot4? I know some of the 5.1s are but some others aren't recommended unless as a clean install.

[Anthony30]

Just had a look in the garage, and it does not appear to be mineral based. Just found this on www.apracing.com. So I'm not sure really. I would always advise other people to use normal DOT 4, if asked.

 

'AP Racing Formula DOT 5.1 fluid will mix safely with other DOT 5.1 fluids along with DOT 3 and DOT 4 Fluids conforming to the above specifications.

Note: Not suitable for vehicles with Mineral Oil Systems.'

 

AP Racing Formula DOT 5.1 is a premium specification Motor Vehicle Brake and Clutch Fluid which conforms to and exceeds the current international specifications U.S. FMVSS No 116, DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1, S.A.E. J1703, SAE J1704 and ISO4925. Suitable for High Performance Road Applications including vehicles fitted with ABS and ESP.

AP Racing Formula DOT 5.1 is non silicone based.

Superior -40°C (-40°F) viscosity makes it suitable for vehicles operating in cold climates.

   

[HarrysMini]

It is worth noting that you must never mix DOT4 and DOT5. The latter is a silicone based fluid, unlike DOT5.1. 

[matt050990]

I'll just get a bottle of the dot 4. The system is completely empty now so will get a 1lt bottle to make sure I have plenty.