DOT 5 brake fluid
DOT 5 brake fluid
Dyna has 8200mi. I can't get in touch with PO and there is no maintenance record to go by. Spec is DOT5 brake fluid....new to me. Is this stuff like other brake fluid in that it 'attracts/holds' moisture? I have to assume the fluid is OE from '03 so, I want to completely replace it with a high-quality brand. Regular bleed process with my trusty Mity-Vac? Out with the old/in with the new. I've replaced all the other fluids, but forgot about the brake juice.
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,630
Likes: 17
From: Central FL
The DOT5 does not attract moisture like 3 or 4 but it is not compatible. It does have some advantages as well as disadvantages. It is silicone based instead of glycol based. That is why they are not compatible.
2nd Gear
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
From: Pasadena, Md
dot 4 vs. dot 5 fluid
My 09 Super Glide calls for dot 4. HD has had an issue with this fluid since they starting using it around 04 - 05 (?). The master cyclinder gaskets can't stand up to it. Has anyone ever converted to dot 5 from the OE dot 4 ? I know it's not copmpatible to mix, but will a thorough flushing be ok?
I just replaced my master cylinder cover and gasket and there is much chatter on this forum from owners who have had recurring problems because of the dot 4.
Thanks for reading,
Mark
I just replaced my master cylinder cover and gasket and there is much chatter on this forum from owners who have had recurring problems because of the dot 4.
Thanks for reading,
Mark
My rear brake felt spongy so I checked the rear MC. About half-full. Could not find any sign of a leak? I emptied it and refilled it with new DOT5. Bled the air out until full steam of fluid. Rear brake works fine now. Bought 2 sets of pads when at the dealer buying the fluid.....just in case. OE pads on front and rear are fine. Both sets of pads cost just a few $$ short of $100. Will keep for time when needed. I doubt they will be less-expensive in the future.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 750
Likes: 3
From: 3rd Rock
Hello all,
Couldn't help but "chime in" on this one.
The answer is D, All of the above. However there are 2 more points not mentioned about the DOT 5. First, the good point, DOT 5 will not harm your paint , should you have a mishap like that. Second, the not so good point. DOT 5 has a lower boiling point. should be OK for the average rider but, if you do a lot of canyon carving or heavy duty stops and starts it could affect your bracking proficiency.
I converted my 06 Super glide to DOT 5 five yesrs ago and, have had no problems. Just be sure to evacuate the system of all the other completely, and go ask your local friendly HD parts guy or gal to sell you DOT 5 badged master cyclinder caps.
Best wishes...... Tim
Couldn't help but "chime in" on this one.
The answer is D, All of the above. However there are 2 more points not mentioned about the DOT 5. First, the good point, DOT 5 will not harm your paint , should you have a mishap like that. Second, the not so good point. DOT 5 has a lower boiling point. should be OK for the average rider but, if you do a lot of canyon carving or heavy duty stops and starts it could affect your bracking proficiency.
I converted my 06 Super glide to DOT 5 five yesrs ago and, have had no problems. Just be sure to evacuate the system of all the other completely, and go ask your local friendly HD parts guy or gal to sell you DOT 5 badged master cyclinder caps.
Best wishes...... Tim
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 6,642
Likes: 48
From: Ogden, UT
Hello all,
Couldn't help but "chime in" on this one.
The answer is D, All of the above. However there are 2 more points not mentioned about the DOT 5. First, the good point, DOT 5 will not harm your paint , should you have a mishap like that. Second, the not so good point. DOT 5 has a lower boiling point. should be OK for the average rider but, if you do a lot of canyon carving or heavy duty stops and starts it could affect your bracking proficiency.
I converted my 06 Super glide to DOT 5 five yesrs ago and, have had no problems. Just be sure to evacuate the system of all the other completely, and go ask your local friendly HD parts guy or gal to sell you DOT 5 badged master cyclinder caps.
Best wishes...... Tim
Couldn't help but "chime in" on this one.
The answer is D, All of the above. However there are 2 more points not mentioned about the DOT 5. First, the good point, DOT 5 will not harm your paint , should you have a mishap like that. Second, the not so good point. DOT 5 has a lower boiling point. should be OK for the average rider but, if you do a lot of canyon carving or heavy duty stops and starts it could affect your bracking proficiency.
I converted my 06 Super glide to DOT 5 five yesrs ago and, have had no problems. Just be sure to evacuate the system of all the other completely, and go ask your local friendly HD parts guy or gal to sell you DOT 5 badged master cyclinder caps.
Best wishes...... Tim
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