7 replies to this topic

[1314cc]

Recently I fitted a new master cylinder, calipers, flexible hoses and brake pipes. As there is hardly any fluid in the system, what's the best way to refill? Is it just a case of pump pedal in correct sequence?

[leyland73]

Use a small funnel to fill the master cylinder, and ensure you have plenty of rags or old towels to cover the wing and wrap around the master cylinder for the brake fluid that is bound to escape down the side as brake fluid will damage your paint. Pour it in slowly to avoid excessive bubbles.

I’ve found opening the furthest bleed nipple and letting fluid run out via a short plastic hose can be better than trying to bleed via pumping the pedal. Crack open the bleed nipple, make a cup of coffee and come back 30 mins later, this will allow for fluid to run through the brake pipes without too much ‘foam’ being created by excessive pedal travel. This foam of tiny air bubbles will make for a soft pedal and take an age to bleed out.

Then bleed in the usual way.

Edited by leyland73, 02 September 2018 - 05:25 PM.

[AlexMozza]

As above start with the furthest away, so on a UK car the NSR.
Gravity blessing can be a good way to get fluid moving before you start to bleed with the pedal.
However I’ve always found it best to bench bleed the master cylinder first to avoid damaging the seals.

[1314cc]

I've bled brakes before but never from empty. Think I may try the gravity job first

[AlexMozza]

I've bled brakes before but never from empty. Think I may try the gravity job first

Just take it steady, slowly press the pedal through its travel and you should be fine :)

[Homersimpson]

I've tended to use an Eezi Bleed kit, now £18.50 from toolstation https://www.toolstat...SABEgKa7fD_BwE 

 

They are a top bit of kit and if everything in the brake system is right you should be able to bleed the car from scratch in 20 minutes on your own.  I've used them for 20 years without any issues on all sorts of cars from Minis to Jags.

[InnoCooperExport]

If this a complete renewal of the system have you thought about filling the system with silicon brake fluid? It doesn't damage your paint nor is it hygroscopic like the regular stuff is. 

[Swift_General]

+1 for the Eezi bleed kit. Makes things so much easier (as name suggests!) particularly if your system is basically dry.