Re: CAUTION ON THE USE OF SILICONE BKAKE FLUID IN ESAMATIC BRAKE SYSTEMS

Posted by Peter Packard On 2007/10/23 3:19:28

"Cutting to the chase", has anyone documented a case where the compensator port spring has actually failed in operation? I would doubt it as the spring is a very relaxed spiral, and does not compress in operation, simply holds a few pounds closing pressure tilting the seal underneath the port. My vocation takes me to a number of vehicle accident repairers, jam-packed with damaged current 2007 model BMW's, Mercedes, Saab and other vehicles with "fail-safe" braking systems. I would rate the "loose nut at the wheel" ahead of any perceived problem with the treadle-vac system on my 56. I am not sure but I understand that the spring is not included in the Bendix repair kit for the treadle vac. I would certainly check any springs such as these out for corrosion or damage during overhaul but where do you draw the line in overhauling and driving 50 to 100 year old vehicles? I recently had the steering head of my 1907 Triumph 500cc motor bike break off completely at 25 mph whilst negotiating a bridge crossing. I am sure that it never happened before and I have replaced the item and am confident of another 100 years on the bike ( I wish!) Risk Management is the key to survival in any vehicle, old or new. Peter Toet