Brake fluid

Russ from MN · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 9:30 am Post subject: Brake fluid

Is there a difference between DOT 3 & 4? I am working on my MC and it calls for 4, and I have a 40 year old can of 3! Thanks in advance!

Russel AZ · Regular Joined: 21 Aug 2012 Posts: 76 Report to Moderator

DOT 4's major difference is it's higher boiling point, in the neighborhood of 100 degrees higher.

Throw the 40 year old stuff away.

CAROGATOR · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 10:12 am Post subject: Re: Brake fluid

And never switch DOT 3 and DOT 5

Chris(WA) · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 10:18 am Post subject: Re: Brake fluid

Use the correct brake fluid. The wrong stuff WILL eat the soft parts of your bikes brakes!!! Mine is sitting in the shop from just that mistake right now.I did just what you are thinking of and am paying for it!
Also, all brake fluid absorbs water from the atmosphere. Throw away old brake fluid and buy just enought to use from a new sealed container.Then throw away any left over. Cheap insurance!

JRSutton · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 12:00 pm Post subject: Re: Brake fluid

Given the importance of brakes on a motorcylce, I think I'd spring for a fresh can of whatever they ask for - whether or not it's really needed.

WGWKy2 · Guest Report to Moderator

I think some of you guys meant to say"properly recycle".

Chris(WA) · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 1:07 pm Post subject: Re: Brake fluid

Of course! That is where I throw it away too!

Hobo,NC · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 1:51 pm Post subject: Re: Brake fluid

504 · Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2013 6:54 pm Post subject: Re: Brake fluid

DOT 5 works fine(yes they will mix) as long as you do not have ABS, and it doesn t absorb water.

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