Brake Fluid

[Sven]

I am about to need to replace my brake/clutch fluid.  I saw an archived thread about "blinker fluid", but that will have to wait until I can afford to buy the higher-end "turn indicator fluid".

Since the brake/clutch use the US DOT 4 generic brake fluid, is there any reason not to buy whatever's cheapest at AutoZone?

[PitterB4]

I'm not sure about the brake fluid but when you get around to it you DEFINITELY don't want to go el-cheapo on the blinker fluid.  You'll lose a few HPs and may even void the warranty!     Genuine Suzuki is the only way to go there.  And for God's sake don't forget, if you've gone to aftermarket, flushmount blinkers, to get the special flushmount fluid!

[Red01]

None that I can think of.

But when you get your blinker fluid - don't forget to get the high compression blinker & tail light gaskets!

[Sven]

I don't think the blinker fluid will need to be changed any time soon; nobody in this area ever uses a blinker for any purpose.  It's more fun to just leave 'em guessing what you might do at any time...

[Sven]

OK, I've been through all the books, and I can't see anything which tells me how much fluid I would need for either the brake or the clutch.  I'm guessing a pint will be more than enough since it looks like there's just the two reservoirs plus whatever is inside the hydraulic cables...about 6 oz each?

[Red01]

Sounds close... maybe a little more on the front since there's two calipers.
A 16oz bottle ought to do.

[txbanditrydr]

... than enough since it looks like there's just the two reservoirs plus whatever is inside the hydraulic cables...about 6 oz each?

Make that three reservoirs......  

[Red01]

There's a back brake?  

   

[Sven]

I was only gonna change the brake fluid on the driver's side, not on the passenger side.  

[scooter69]

A little off topic but don't forget that if you get a flat....just turn the tire over.

It's only flat on the bottom!

[Sven]

I thought tires were like underwear:

You just turn them inside out and keep going.

(Or was that:  They both have skidmarks?)

[99er]

Sven,
Seriously, it doesn't matter what fluid you use if you change it as a matter of practice and don't race. So, boiling point and water tolerance aren't at issue. Buy any old fluid.
Now, that said, Valvoline 5.1 is DOT 4 compatible and a partial synthetic (if I remember right). It's also really cheap and available everywhere. I've used it in my bikes and in my Fords (God help me) for years and it's what I use when I work on others' machines. Treat yourself.
Marc/Atlanta
'insomniac

[Sven]

Marc, I haven't picked up anything yet, so I'll look for the Valvoline 5.1.  Thanks!

[Fordtech]

Comedy central here..anyway, I change brake and clutch fluid twice year,with DOT4, as it is readily availabele from the dealer I work at. The Focus uses it, so do I. Makes a difference changing fluid....better brake feel etc.[/img]

[Sven]

Comedy central here..anyway, I change brake and clutch fluid twice year,with DOT4, as it is readily availabele from the dealer I work at. The Focus uses it, so do I. Makes a difference changing fluid....better brake feel etc.[/img]

Interesting thoughts.  I would imagine there's an overall equation involving time, heat, and use (miles) that creates a "sweet spot" for timing the fluid changes.

However, the process is a pain in the @$$ and I don't want to do it any more than is reasonable.  I don't know how one person is supposed to pump the right hand brake handle and bleed the left hand caliper, so I was lucky to have a helper.

As for the comdey...Um, I'm gonna take advice based on a Focus?!  What, the Adobe is no longer in production?  (You know, the little car made of clay.)