brake fluid

springers97 · Aug 4th, 2008, 10:18 AM

Can someone tell me why there is a need for a dot 5 instead of using dot 3 or any other?

glider · Aug 4th, 2008, 10:31 AM

Dot 5 is a silicone and dot 3 is a glycol base as is 5.1, they do not mix and the proper fluid should be used in the system or you will contaminate the system requiring a complete rebuild. Always check on the master cylinder cover to see what belongs in the system.

Vibratinharley · Aug 4th, 2008, 11:05 AM

Here are some advantages to silicon brake fluid over conventional polyglycol brake fluids.
It is permanent, doesn't absorb moisture, doesn't boil, it prevents corrosion rather than causing it, it will not damage paint if it is spilled on the paint and it helps lubricate seals and other components in the brake system.

One thing I learned about silicone brake fluid in my experience with race cars is that it compresses more than regular brake fluid and can give your foot pedal and brake lever a different feel if switching from glycol based.

Lots of benefits over DOT 5 as opposed to DOT 3.

Nuff Said

springers97 · Aug 4th, 2008, 12:31 PM

thanks for you help, it is really appreciated

Aug 4th, 2008, 10:18 AM	#1
springers97 Start The Engine Ride: 1997 springer softail Join Date: Jul 7th, 2008 Posts: 24	brake fluid Can someone tell me why there is a need for a dot 5 instead of using dot 3 or any other?

Aug 4th, 2008, 10:31 AM	#2
glider Community Liaison Ride: 07 Road King Classic Join Date: Jun 21st, 2007 Posts: 21,039 My Mood:	Re: brake fluid Dot 5 is a silicone and dot 3 is a glycol base as is 5.1, they do not mix and the proper fluid should be used in the system or you will contaminate the system requiring a complete rebuild. Always check on the master cylinder cover to see what belongs in the system. __________________ Psssst! Please stop by the "self help section" for maintenance tips, diagnostic codes and much more. click me!>>Self Help Information and Tips<< click me!

Aug 4th, 2008, 11:05 AM	#3
Vibratinharley Contributor$ Ride: 2008 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic Join Date: Aug 18th, 2007 Location: Pennsylvania Posts: 435 My Mood:	Re: brake fluid Here are some advantages to silicon brake fluid over conventional polyglycol brake fluids. It is permanent, doesn't absorb moisture, doesn't boil, it prevents corrosion rather than causing it, it will not damage paint if it is spilled on the paint and it helps lubricate seals and other components in the brake system. One thing I learned about silicone brake fluid in my experience with race cars is that it compresses more than regular brake fluid and can give your foot pedal and brake lever a different feel if switching from glycol based. Lots of benefits over DOT 5 as opposed to DOT 3. Nuff Said __________________ 1993 sportster Dark Blue Stock Induction, Python Mufflers,No good deed goes unpunished! Last edited by Vibratinharley; Aug 4th, 2008 at 11:08 AM. Reason: missing something

Aug 4th, 2008, 12:31 PM	#4
springers97 Start The Engine Ride: 1997 springer softail Join Date: Jul 7th, 2008 Posts: 24	Re: brake fluid thanks for you help, it is really appreciated

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

brake fluid

Softail Models