which brake fluid to use

[andy]

What are you guys using for brake fluid?
Just finished rebuilding the whole brake system and starting fresh

Andy

[HenryVIII]

I am doing the same thing. starting from scratch. I am going to use dot5 (silicone based) mostly because it will not damage the paint.
Henry   

[andy]

I was thinking that but,,,, is it compatible with the seals etc from the old days?

I am doing the same thing. starting from scratch. I am going to use dot5 (silicone based) mostly because it will not damage the paint.
Henry

[HenryVIII]

Im not sure. but if you Are using all new seals it should not matter. I was told by a friend that was a mechanic in the army in the 50's, that the military has been using silicone fluid for a long time. I can not prove that however.  I think brake fluids can be interchanged, but they should never be mixed. 

Henry

[Outsider]

If you mix 3 and 5 you get to start over on your brake system. So always label your vehicles it if you use different fluids in different vehicles.

As far as what you can use. You should be able to use either 3 or 5 and be ok. They both work with the same seal materials, they just don't mix.

Steve

[Hinrik]

Guys,

What about the NOS rebuild kits for the hydrovacs? I rebuilt mine using a NOS kit and I am worried
that if I use new type of fluid it will wear out the old rubber seals?

Reg

Hinrik

[gab]

I have a 36 dodge that I did the brakes on in 85 it sat from 94 till last year. One of the wheel cylinders leaked all of the fluid out, I opened the master cylinder up expecting a hole full of rust, it was like new. I used silicone, it repels moisture and does not hurt the paint, dot 3 absorbs moisture and we all know what it does to paint, I will never go back.        Greg

[Tapper02]

Can anyone tell me where to find the capacity of the brake system?  Can't seem to find it in any of the TMs, or the Operator's Manual...maybe I'm overlooking it.  Thanks!

[Jesse]

I dont know the exact amount, but I know it’s less than a quart.

[Tapper02]

I dont know the exact amount, but I know it’s less than a quart.

Thanks Jesse....starting from a dry system and was trying not to over purchase.