MK3 Brake fluid

[PaulM]

My mk3 has DOT3 currently in it, was thinking of upgrading to 4 or 5.1, anyone know if this will have a detrimental effect on seals or anything like that, or am I talking out of my arse and its a no brainer :shrug:

[biteme]

Just completely flush it out first and fill up with whatever you like. I wanted 5.1 in mine. But they're not compatible as far as I know!

[PaulM]

I was going to say not 5, but 5.1 as 5 is silicone based not glycol, as 5.1 is .

[biteme]

I don't know too much about them :) - I just know I liked the feel of my setup with 5.1 :D

[PaulM]

Why could you not go 5.1 Johnny and waht did you go for in the end ?

[biteme]

I did go 5.1, but it all had to be flushed first ... I was on DOT4 originally I believe :)

[GregHoon]

When Johnny says they are not compatible i think he means you have to have one or the other as they can't be mixed. Hence they must be flushed before replacing. Is that right Johnny? you massive quim

[biteme]

Yep, that's what I meant, Hoonage!

[GregHoon]

Yep, that's what I meant, Hoonage!

:banana:Yay me!

[BSM]

Synthetic brake fluid DOT 5 and upwards is not compatible with the older stuff, you can mix 1,2,3 and 4 and poss 5.1 (notice the .1) but 5 and above is completeley different stuff and , if my memory serves me correctly it'll turn to goop and bugger all the seals. If you need to clean anything brake hydraulic system use Meths and then make sure it's all dry and no residue before adding new DOT 5 (+) and bleed/treat as normal.
Glycol based is normal stufff
Synthetic is DOT 5

More info here:
clicky (http://www.sportbikesolutions.com/motorcycle_brake_fluid.php?ssparms=articles/brake-fluid#gvss)

[wardie]

yep, mixed 3 and 5 in my clutch.. was fun flushing that gunge out!! defo dont mix them!!