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DOT5 HAHAHA. It came out with a big splash and does have some advantages but they are far outweighed by the disadvantages and it only makes sense in very special circumstances IMHO. I would not hesitate to return to DOT3 or DOT4 (either is fine, Castrol LMA is labelled as meeting both) without alteration to components, after special flushing procedures to clear the system of all DOT5. I have not needed to do this but would proceed as follows: Flush conventionally with a pressure bleeder with DOT3 or 4. Flush again with compressed air. Flush again with isopropyl alcohol, which is a good solvent for conventional fluid, don't know about DOT 5 which is completely different. Refill with pressure bleeder. Test drive. If all OK, repeat simple conventional flush in a week or a month, then every two years.
There is a new fluid DOT5.1 that is more like 3 or 4, but NOT like DOT 5. Bad labelling mistake IMHO.
Brake component mfrs like Bendix or Castrol have tech lines that you can find on the internet, that may help you with more official flushing procedures to change fluids, my process is my own untested invention.
Unless you have reason to believe the contrary, chances are your car was converted to DOT5 with a simple flush/exchange procedure which left some of the conventional fluid in the system. The two types do not mix. I have seen it recommended that to switch to DOT5 you should change all rubber components, ie seals, because DOT5 is slipperier or has smaller molecules or something and leaks in an old system, this may be true I don't know. However going back the other way would not seem to involve this risk. No fluid has any appreciable effect of deteriorating seals AFAIK.
Please report back how you handle all this.
posted by 208.53.6...
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