PDA

View Full Version : Brake Juice: DOT3 vs. DOT4



nfpgasmask
12/21/2006, 09:15 AM
Hey all,

I am getting my brakes serviced soon, and I was wondering, what is the difference between DOT3 and DOT4 brake fluid?

Before I drove out to Reno, my mech drained and refilled my brake fluid. He put in DOT4 instead of DOT3 (which is what comes stock with the VX I think).

So, is there a difference? Preference? Anything I should know?

Thanks,
Bart

ojmagg
12/21/2006, 09:27 AM
http://www.afcoracing.com/tech_pages/fluid.shtml

nfpgasmask
12/21/2006, 09:31 AM
Thanks for the link. From reading that, it sounds like the only difference is between the boiling points.

And from what I gather, either DOT3 or DOT4 is fine in the VX???

Bart



http://www.afcoracing.com/tech_pages/fluid.shtml

MZ-N10
12/21/2006, 01:51 PM
u cant go wrong wiht a higher boiling point......

newthings
12/21/2006, 05:15 PM
Everything except DOT 5 will absorb water and corrode cylinder walls after a few years. I change fluid every year in wet Oregon. I use DOT4.
DOT 5 will not take up water and holds the water getting by the seal, at the edge of the fluid. This spot corrodes more quickly. DOT 5 has other problems with gas absorbtion and gives a spongy feel when brakes are worked a lot. Members of our group have had bad racing experience with loss of braking when they needed it most. DOT 5 will not eat paint. Show cars and Harley's use DOT 5.
Roy