Growl
XS650 Addict
I am reassembling my 1981 xs650 front disk brake, okay to use DOT 5 fluid? Also, there's these brass anti-squeel shims for the pads... no prob to leave these off, right?
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See if this helps: http://www.xs650.com/forum/showthread.php?t=37904
NONclow
Confirmed Laquer Breather
Only if it has been completely.... and thoroughly flushed. Or if ALL components are brand new. Dot 5 is silicone based, and is incompatible with Dot 3 or 4 (the rubber parts and hoses swell shut when mixed). But there is Dot 5.1 which IS compatible.
The anti-sqeak pads are there to cushion and isolate the harmonics that increase with brake use and dust accumulation. If it wasn't an issue they wouldn't put them in.
The anti-sqeak pads are there to cushion and isolate the harmonics that increase with brake use and dust accumulation. If it wasn't an issue they wouldn't put them in.
DOT 3 works just fine, why use something else?
Leo
Leo
mrriggs
XS650 Junkie
DOT 5 is popular with the Harley crowd because it won't damage paint if spilled.
jd750ace
Front Toward Enemy
I run DOT 4 in everything.
Hi Growl,
like they said, ONLY use DOT 5 in a system that's squeaky clean or better yet, has only new hoses and seals in it.
DOT 3 or DOT 4 or the DOT 3/4 that Canadian Tire sells all happily mix together.
NONE of them will mix with DOT 5.
When DOT 3 etc gets contaminated with water it makes an emulsion that makes the brakes work less efficiently.
DOT 5 don't do that. Water contamination settles in the lowest part of the brake system instead. If that lowest part is a steel tube it'll rust and come freezeup it can lead to problems but who rides a Harley when it's that cold, eh?
like they said, ONLY use DOT 5 in a system that's squeaky clean or better yet, has only new hoses and seals in it.
DOT 3 or DOT 4 or the DOT 3/4 that Canadian Tire sells all happily mix together.
NONE of them will mix with DOT 5.
When DOT 3 etc gets contaminated with water it makes an emulsion that makes the brakes work less efficiently.
DOT 5 don't do that. Water contamination settles in the lowest part of the brake system instead. If that lowest part is a steel tube it'll rust and come freezeup it can lead to problems but who rides a Harley when it's that cold, eh?
I've spilled brake fluid at least once or twice in the last 40+ years, If cleaned up quickly it won't hurt the paint.
On the water contamination, just replace it every couple years.
Leo
On the water contamination, just replace it every couple years.
Leo
Growl
XS650 Addict
THANKS for the comments gents. My brake system is apart and ready to assemble...so a switch to DOT 5 is doable. The only advantage that I can see (since I never have had brake fluid boil) is the paint issue... but that IS appealing actually.
I put DOT5 in one of my bikes years ago. Back then in the '80s, it was all the rage. I feel the paint thing is about all it's got going for it. It was a lot of work to make the switch and I would never do it again. Standard brake fluids have improved to the point where I don't think the 5 works any better. It is also quite a bit more expensive.
I am Carbon
shade tree mechanic
All I can say is if it aint broke don't fix it.
I also have never messed up paint do to brake fluid spillage
I also have never messed up paint do to brake fluid spillage
Max Midnight
XS650 Addict
Probably the only reason that you would do so, but if your aim is that bad cocer the painted areas with cling-film.
Red Beard
XS650 Addict
Wise words. Why spend money on something that works perfectly fine already?
