It says in the instruction manuel and on the filler cap use Dot 3, but I've been to Halfords and they don't stock it. So where do I get it.

I think you will find DOT 4 and 5 supercede DOT 3. Each seems to have a higher temperature rating.

5.1 for me ;)

DO NOT USE DOT5 BRAKE FLUID ON THE ROAD!

 

Dot 5 is a silicon fluid which does not absorb water in the lines. It will lead to a soft pedal due to a fluid/water/fluid situation.

 

You also need to make sure your hoses can cope with silicon, as they can swell up and corrode, and swell the caliper seals. (I don't know if it would affect the Zed, but bear in mind your cap calls for Dot3 and the brake system is old)

 

Dot 3, 4, and 5.1 are Poly Glycol based fluids, and will mix with water. They are twice as less compressable as silicon and will give a better pedal feel.

 

The only advantage of using Dot5 is on a pure race care due to the higher boiling point, which is not an issue on a road car. Racers change their fluid often, so the water issue is irrelevant.

Blimey, that's a bit confusing and I think dangerous. DOT 5.1 is OK but DOT 5 is not. Why do these manufacturers play silly buggers with specs like that. I know it would probably all be explained in the small print on the label, but who reads all of that before buying. I wonder if that was why this chap took matters into his own hands.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/south_west/5110270.stm

Thank guys, I think. Confused yes. Dot 3 would be good if I can find it Dot 4 and 5.1 I can buy at Halfords. But which one? and can I just top up, or would the system have to be drained. Must be because it's a Jap car it's on Dot 3, because all previous cars I've owned which were older were on Dot 4.

it all depends on your brake set up, if its standard DOT 3 or 4 will be fine and can be mixed. if your running a more advanced set up and drive the old girl hard, use DOT 5.1 BUT FLUSH THE SYSTEM you can not mix DOT 5.1

HTH

How do you completely flush the system other than open the bleed screws and pump for england. :confused:

That's where a vac/pressure bleeder comes in handy! ;)

That's where a vac/pressure bleeder comes in handy! ;)

 

Unfortunately i've only got legs and a spanner. :p

Unfortunately i've only got legs and a spanner. :p

YOU HAVE A SPANNER!!!!!????? :rofl:

YOU HAVE A SPANNER!!!!!????? :rofl:

 

Yeah and it's one of them special ones for brakes :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :D

Thanks silverbullet on advice on what you can, and can not mix and to everyone else who put in their bit. Think my system is standard but shall be carefull. We all know that need for confidence when you stamp on that pedal.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/wales/south_west/5110270.stm

 

 

bloody hell!!!

no problem bud. best and quickest way to flush, is crack all four nipples and keep pumping. then do the same again for the ABS unit, until the system is dry ;)