Anyone using DOT 5 brake fluid???

[64Trvlr]

OK, I tried the search and nothing. Are any of you guys using DOT 5 in your brake system? It works great in mine except for the fact it goes right through the brake light switch in about 6-8 months. I'd like to find a switch ( 1/8" pipe thread normally open ) that would not leak every 6-8 months.
Thanks for any help.....

[tigger4x]

I used the DOT 3 until a few buddies said that they had switched up to the DOT 4 in their street bikes. And I hadn't heard of the DOT 5 stuff before now so I have no first hand knowledge. Are you sure that it is indeed the DOT 5 that is causing the leakage You can always contact the manufacturer and make an inquiry. I dunno.

[DEnd]

If I remember correctly DOT-5 fluid will leak in a system designed for DOT-3 or below. I don't know of a switch that will work because most of the newer vehicles (at least all that I have seen) have the brake light switch in the porportioning (sp?) block. Though I guess you could take out the porportioning mechanisim and seal off all the unneeded holes if you can find one with the right fittings.

[64Trvlr]

Originally posted by DEnd
If I remember correctly DOT-5 fluid will leak in a system designed for DOT-3 or below. Though I guess you could take out the porportioning mechanisim

The system doesn't leak at all. The only problem is at about 6-8 months the DOT 5 seeps right through the switch. My Jeep is an old one and it doesn't have a proportioning valve.

[ol John Henry]

Plug the pressure switch hole and run a regular electric trip switch on the pedals. I run DOT 5 in all my “new” installations its good stuff but is considered “compressible” to some degree.

[64Trvlr]

Originally posted by cornfedred
“compressible”

????????
I'm thinking about doing that, but was just wondering if anyone knew of a switch that would work. I called Borg Warner this morning and " somebody " is suposed to call me back with some info.

[ol John Henry]

Almost any switch will work <img src= "http://www.partsamerica.com/product_images/AAP/ACD/D885.jpg ">


GM# 01261219

[64Trvlr]

That might work, have to figure out a mount as my pedals come through the floor. I was thinking about the lever arm style they have on heavy equipment, then it could go under the floor with no problem.

[CaptainFleXJ151]

Dot 5 brake fluid is generally used for racing because of its high temperature resistance. There is no need for it in an off-road application. If you use Dot 5 you will have to change the fluid often. The corrosion resistance of dot 5 is not near as good as dot 3 or 4. I would stay away from it unless you are racing your rig with multi piston calipers.

[Jaffer]

Originally posted by CaptainFleXJ151
Dot 5 brake fluid is generally used for racing because of its high temperature resistance. There is no need for it in an off-road application. If you use Dot 5 you will have to change the fluid often. The corrosion resistance of dot 5 is not near as good as dot 3 or 4. I would stay away from it unless you are racing your rig with multi piston calipers.

These things were told to me by Van, a professional power brake man....

DOT 5 is used in motorcycles due to it's high temp resistant properties. And it was used in some of the older postal Jeep models for the same reason.
However, it DOES compress and leaves a softer petal.
And it does not need to be used in general off roading.
And DOT 3 or 4 works better.

... soooo, I use Valvoline semi synthetic DOT4 in my brakes and NAPA DOT 5 in my Lucas/Girling hydraulic clutch setup.
In fact, the clutch MC's instructions recommend DOT5