Jim_Chow
V8_Fan
NMuzj100 said:Great link jahmaka.
Good article on Brake fluids too
Stoptech article on Brake fluid
the message here is this: it’s fine to upgrade from DOT 3 fluid A to DOT 3 fluid B, but you should think twice (maybe even three times) before switching from DOT 3 fluid A to DOT 4 fluid of any sort.
Makes me question my decision to go with DOT 4 fluid.I probably should have gone with a Toyota DOT3 for assured compatibility especially given the expense of a new master.
Bleeding ABS systems (also from Stoptech) I recommended for anyone trying to "flush" their brake fluid. The 100's system seems likely to have a seperate ABS reservoir given the FSMs instructions on brake bleeding and the use of the Toyota Hand-held tester.
One co-worker of mine track races and told me dot 4 has a higher boiling point, but absorbs more water than a dot 3, so you need to flush more often (he added the water absorption isn't a problem here in AZ). I've been using Valvoline dot 4 in my Aisin FJ80 master cylinder for 5 yrs, flushed every 1.5 yrs. So far, so good.
As far as bleeding goes, the Lexus tech tells me you just need to hold down the brake pedal w/ ignition "on" to bleed the rears (pump will pump fluid out), but for the fronts, you can either use the Lexus/Toyota tester (or ABS SST) or pump the old-fashioned way. This seems logical since when the master fails, the fail-safe mode is zero brake pressure the rear and reduced pressure up front. It suggests the rear is completely dependent on the hydraulic pump while the front isn't. I haven't tried this yet to confirm it.
My local Lexus dealer doesn't sell/use Toyota dot 3 fluid. They use the cheapie Pyroil dot 3 (made by Valvoline) sold at PepBoys. Ditto for the Toyota dealer in town. So just because toyota flushes your brakes, don't assume they're using Toyota brand fluid. Ask first! I'm not even sure it's available here in the States. Has anyone bought any? This goes for ATF and coolant, too. I've heard of some toyota dealers using cheapie green for a radiator drain & fill! I sure wish Toyota sold that super-long life pre-mixed coolant they use at the factory.