Bleeding Brakes: Rusty Rusty Bleeders

[normal]

Had to have some of my brake lines replaced due to rusted lines. Truck is overall very rusty and bleeders are pretty much (well totally) rusted out. Two questions: 1) Some people have told me they can do some "work arounds" and bleed the brakes at locations other than the bleeders..... any opinions on the feasability of this? 2) Rear wheel cylinders are pretty cheap... and I am willing to spend the money to have them replaced. But since the truck is so rusted I am concerned I may open up a can of worms with other rusted things breaking during replacment (i don't know all that would be entailed in the replament though). Any comments of likelihood of further problems if replacement is attempted? 3) Some say they could put a torch to my bleeders and most likely crack them open to bleed without damaging cylinders.... any comments on liklihood of heat/torch ruining the cylinders?? Sorry for a looooonnnnggg post. Thanks for any advice TRUCK: 1987 F150 300/4.9/6cyl 4wd THANKS

[azul_canoe]

I have had lots of experience with rust living in Eastern Canada. The problem with replacing the wheel cylinders is that invariably the lines will twist off going into the cylinders, so you can expect to have to replace your lines back to the block if you haven't already. Heat and a 6 point socket may help you get the bleeders loose, but be prepared for them to break off (ie. buy the cylinders, return them if you can get the bleeders loose). In my younger years I did bleed brakes through the fittings where they enter the cylinder once as a an emergency fix (bleeders twisted off). It seemed to work OK for the few days I drove the car until I replaced the parts , but I obviously can't "recommend" this practice.

azul

[89Lariat]

Put the ratchet and socket on the bleeder and tap it with a hammer, not too hard though. This has worked for me before with stubborn bleeder screws.

[snappylips]

Originally Posted by normal

TRUCK: 1987 F150 300/4.9/6cyl 4wd. THANKS

As common as those cylinders are, you should be able to get them for $15 or so. Definitely have a torch handy. Good luck.

SL