Re: Of DOT3, alcohol antifreeze, vinegar and other alchemy

Posted by fred kanter On 2011/5/16 0:13:00

From the internet:

Why is Brake Fluid Flush Important?
The primary reason for a periodic brake fluid flush or brake fluid replacement is the chemical nature of the glycol based braking fluids. These chemicals are hygroscopic, that is they have a tendency to absorb moisture. With moisture absorption, boiling point of these fluids goes down and the efficiency of braking also gets compromised. When the boiling point drops, the brakes don't work properly in high temperature conditions or high braking situations. Fresh brake fluid is clear, while the one which has absorbed moisture is denser and less clear. This deterioration of braking fluid quality can be especially detrimental to anti-lock braking systems.

Many sites mention flushing from every 2 to 6 years. Keep in mind that most newer cars do not have vented master cylinders like most pre '66 cars do. The newer cars have a rubber diaphragm separating the fluid reservoir from the atmosphere, the primary source of damaging moisture
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In other forums that have been numerous instances mentioned of brake fade/failure mostly in the higher powered 55-56 V8's. Some has been blamed on BTV's or modern linings. Perhaps the decreased braking efficiency has been due to moisture in the fluid?