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RE: Brake fluids and rubber parts

To: mgs@autox.team.net
Subject: RE: Brake fluids and rubber parts
From: "Dodd, Kelvin" <doddk@mossmotors.com>
Date: Mon, 30 Aug 1999 14:15:00 -0700
Not everything works with everything else.  Is about the only true statement
on the Silicone brake fluid issue.

This is all undocumented spouting, so take it for what it is worth.

1.  All silicone fluids are not the same.  Rubber swelling ingredients have
been added that have had good results and bad results depending on the type
of master cylinder.  There is no way of knowing when and what were added to
different brands at different times.  This means that as usual, sweeping
generalities indicate lack of specialized knowledge.

2.  In some applications, the swelling of rubber seals encountered with some
types of silicone brake fluid can cause brake master cylinder problems.

3.  It is well nigh impossible to completely clean out a used brake system.
Any contaminants (such as water) in the system can congeal into gelatinous
corrosive globs that can destroy a brake master cylinder.

4.  Silicone brake fluid seems to hold up really well to long term storage.
Much better than regular brake fluid.

5.  Silicone brake fluid holds up so well to storage, that one can forget
that the system was converted and top up with regular fluid.

6.  Topping up a system with regular fluid immediately lets you know if the
two types are really compatible.  Usually they are not.

7.  Following long term storage, silicone brake fluid makes an excellent
brake pad lubricant.


Kelvin. 

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