Brake fluid

[GUNNY 155]

Given that silicone based brake fluid is what the mil specs calls for on M37's I was wondering if that is what folks are commonly using. Also has anyone had leak problems using the silicone based fluid.

 

[NDT]

Silicone (DOT 5) works great in M37's. Start with new/rebuilt master and wheel cyls and blow out the lines. Will be the last time you work on the hydraulic system in your lifetime.

 

[gungearz]

You can use whatever brake fluid you want in any system.... PERIOD but make sure whatever you use, you don't mix dot 3/4 with dot 5... military uses dot 5 because it does not mix with water and cause the brake lines to rot out.... it's more of a insurance for equipment then anything... dot 3 and 4 can be washed off, mixed with water and corrode your lines... dot 5 cannot....

 

[ton10291]

You can use whatever brake fluid you want in any system.... PERIOD but make sure whatever you use, you don't mix dot 3/4 with dot 5... military uses dot 5 because it does not mix with water and cause the brake lines to rot out.... it's more of a insurance for equipment then anything... dot 3 and 4 can be washed off, mixed with water and corrode your lines... dot 5 cannot....

What happens if a little DOT 3 gets mixed with DOT 5 as would happen if the DOT 3 was bled out and DOT 5 added until all bleeders ran purple?

 

[bigmike]

What happens if a little DOT 3 gets mixed with DOT 5 as would happen if the DOT 3 was bled out and DOT 5 added until all bleeders ran purple?

I've done this and have had no issues (5 years ago). I had trucks where folks mixed the liquids. If it jelled, you need to change out components (Master cylinder, wheel cylinders, airpack etc). If no jelling, then a major flush until you see DOT 5 bleeding that looks so good you'd put it right back in your Master cylinder, you'll be good. I've had zero issues since doing this.