I need to bleed the brakes & will need to top off the fluid. Does anyone have any brake fluid suggestions? I usually bought Prestone but if there's a better 1 out there I'd rather use that.
Thanks in advance!

 

I don't think it really matters much as I think only DOT4 is synthetic (silicone). Prob says on the master cylinder reservoir. I'm using STP DOT3.

You can't switch to DOT4 unless you completely flush the entire system as far as I know.

 

I don't think brand matters much, but you MUST use whatever DOT type that's listed on the reservoir. In fact, if it already hasn't been done, you might want to consider flushing out your system with fresh fluid. Best way is to use a vacuum bleeder. Using the old "step on the brake pedal" to bleed the brakes can damage the master cylinder.

 

Good point... master cylinder damage.

I hadn't thought of that.... cause it causes the piston in the master cylinder to travel beyond it's normal range of travel into a part of the cylinder than may be corroded after time.

Thanks.

 

I think valvoline makes synthetic DOT 3. Doesn't really matter though. It's all controlled by govt. regulations so any DOT 3 will work fine. DOT 4 and 5 are even better but you have to completely flush the system to switch over, also the DOT 4 and 5's aren't ABS compatable.

-Jon

 

My understanding of brake fluid is that DOT 3 and 4 are compatible. DOT 4 has higher temperture resistance than DOT 3. If it calls for DOT 3 you can use DOT 4 with no harm done. If it calls for DOT 4 you cannot use DOT 3 because of it's lower temp resistance. DOT 3 and 4 are compatible with antilock brakes. Either would suffice in our trucks. DOT 5 is not compatible with DOT 3 or 4 and should not be used in our trucks. It is a silicone base and is only to be used if specifically called for.

 

Ford DOT3 fluid is really good. Even though it's only DOT3, it has a higher boiling temp than most DOT4 fluids. 550F if I remember correctly. I use it in all of my vehicles, even the ones that see the track and such. It works better than any of the other stuff I have tried without spending $15 a bottle.

 

My understanding is that yes, DOT 3 and 4 are compatable with each other but they do not mix together, and since they have different viscosities they can screw with the ABS. For that reason you shouldn't mix the 2 in an ABS system.

-Jon

 

DOT3 and 4 are the same except for temp rating. It's DOT5 that you can't mix.

 

Stick with DOT 3 and you should be fine.