Hi All! Just wondering if anyone has tried Silicon brake fluid on their 365bb? I am aware that some rubber parts from cars brake systems originally designed for dot 3 or dot 4 respond negatively, but some do ok. So may i ask the 365bb owners who have tried silicon brake fluid what their experiences were as far as braking performance goes? Did you just (hopefully) clean out all of the dot 3 or 4 fluid, or did you change all the rubber seals on the entire brake system? Thank You! patrick
Most car owners don't like Silicone, increases pedal travel. Just change the fluid every 2 years and be careful of the paint. Ago
AGO- I`m aware of the general tendency for the pedal to sink lower, but thanks anyway! I was hoping for a more specific answer since its my understanding that certain types of rubber designed for dot3 and 4 react in varying degrees to silicon fluid. Anybody else? patrick
silicone brake fluid is very good for nearly never changing this fluid because this fluid is not hygroscopic ( no water will be mixed after a while like DOT 3 or 4 ) but when you move to this silicone fluid you have to change ALL rubber parts. so the sealing rings in the mastercylinder, in the calipers and also replace all brake hoses. but I prefer changing the fluid every 2 years, much cheaper. to put in silicone brake fluid may be a good option after a totally restauration
I have had silicone fluid in my 365 Boxer since 1987 with zero problems. Did not disassemble anything, just changed fluid. I change the silicone every ten years, but just because I feel guilty. Brake pedal being lower is just a "story". Silicone requires careful bleeding, mostly by gravity, then the pedal will be as good as any other type of fluid. I have it in all my Ferraris and non-ABS cars with no issues. Started using it in 1977.
Patrick: Here is an OBJECTIVE review of using silicone fluid with extensive research. It is the best article I have seen on the subject and dispells lots of the old rumors. www.buckeyetriumphs.org/technical/Brakes/Fluid/Fluid.htm
This same question seems to come up every 6 months or so. My first hand, no B.S. experience: See my post #8 in this old thread: http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=281874
Guys, thank you for all the replies! DWR46- May i ask exactly what brand silicon fluid you used for your boxer? All silicon fluid is dot 5 right? And thanks for the article! DAVE80GTSI- Thanks for the link as well!
Patrick: To the best of my knowledge, Dow Chemical makes all the silicone fluid. I would buy any name brand fluid. Over the years, I have used Dow, private brands and lately Car Quest brand.
