Brake Fluid and Copper Washers

lovemy55ba · Apr 17, 2015

1955 Manual Drum Brakes

What type of brake fluid should I be using?
Also, are copper washers supposed to go on the front brake hoses that attach to the wheel cylinders? I don't see a reference for them and the old ones did not have the washers. However, I don't ever recall not using them on other cars although they would not have been as old.

Thanks.

Dave

shoeboxpaul · Apr 18, 2015

I usually get the DOT4 brake fluid. The difference between DOT 3 and Dot4 is the minimum boiling point. DOT3 is 401 degrees F and DOT 4 minimum is 446 degrees F. DOT 5 is silicone based and I advise you to stay away from it because if you pump the brake pedal, it aerates the fluid and it will take a minimum of 24 to 48 hours before the air comes out of suspension, maybe longer. It is a shame because it is not hygroscopic and that means less chance of rust in the system. Now there is a DOT 5.1 which is not silicone based. and it, along with DOT 5, has a minimum boiling point of 500 degrees F. I do not know how available it is.
As far as I know, there should be a copper washer. It is usually supplied with the wheel cylinder, not sure if it comes with a hose. Raybestos and AC Delco wheel cylinders come with the washer.

Here is an easy read:
http://stoptech.com/technical-support/technical-white-papers/brake-fluid

Paul

554ever · Apr 18, 2015

Washers

There should be copper washer on each side of the fitting/block where the hose attaches to the calipier. Dc

Brake Fluid and Copper Washers

lovemy55ba

shoeboxpaul

554ever

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