Can you review the current thinking on the issue of using silicone fluids? I
have heard and read various opinions on this and wonder whether owners are using
it or not. My spridget, unfortunately, doesn't get out as much as it should,
and
hibernates in the winter. (It competes with several vehicles for seat time.)
It
presently has DOT5 in the clutch hydraulics, and all continues to work well
after
4 years or so. And, my motorcycles use DOT5 in their hydraulics (HD and Yamaha)
with no problems whatsoever, and in all of this, I prefer the moisture
resistance
of the silicone fluids.
So am I just unusually lucky in my Spridget experience in that I have no leaks
or
seal deterioration, or is DOT5 a reasonable substitute under these dormant
conditions?
Ajhsys@aol.com wrote:
> DOT 3 will probably not cause any problems in newer Midgets. The older cars
> have a brake light switch that is in the brake line and hydraulically
> operated. The seals in it (or at least the original seals) will be destroyed
> by US spec. DOT 3 fluid. (Which is different than UK spec DOT 3, just to
> confuse the issue.)
>
> Newer Midgets use an electric brake light switch at the top of the pedal, and
> won't have that particular problem.
>
> DOT 4 is generally better because it has a higher useful temp. range. Also,
> make sure you change the fluid every two years for regular street use,
> annually if you race or autocross. I like Castrol GT LMA, but Valvoline has
> a synthetic DOT 4 fluid that is probably pretty good, and more expensive.
> Changing the fluid regularly will avoid all sorts of problems. All brake
> fluid (except silicone) absorbs water, and the water causes most of the
> problems, like soft pedal, rust in the system, etc.
>
> Did I get that right Ed?
>
> Allen Hefner
> SCCA Philly Region Rally Steward
> '77 Midget
> '92 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Sport
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