Author Topic: Dot 3 or Dot 4 Brake Fluid  (Read 1009 times)

BigDave LM6174

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Dot 3 or Dot 4 Brake Fluid
« on: August 23, 2013, 10:39:55 PM »
Should I use Dot 3 or Dot 4 Brake fluid in my Henry J? I usually use Dot 3 in my Kaiser, but a friend is insisting to use Dot 4.  Thoughts???
Big Dave
KFOCI LM 6174
Whittier, CA.
1951 Kaiser Deluxe
1952 Henry J Corsair Deluxe
1958 Lido 14 Sailboat W/Trailer
1958 Carry All Trailer

rialto

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Re: Dot 3 or Dot 4 Brake Fluid
« Reply #1 on: August 24, 2013, 12:34:58 AM »
Dot 4 has a higher boiling point than Dot 3 and is a generally better fluid. Dot 4 and Dot 3 are compatible and can be used together. Dot 5 is not compatible with Dot 4 or Dot 3 and can only be used by itself.

joefrazer

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Re: Dot 3 or Dot 4 Brake Fluid
« Reply #2 on: August 24, 2013, 07:56:25 AM »
I agree, DOT 3 or 4 is acceptable for use in our cars...and never mix it with DOT 5. As an aside, everyone I know who has used DOT 5 fluid has developed issues with the brakes in their car. It seems that while DOT 5 doesn't absorb water like 3 or 4 does, it does manage to work it's way past seals and cause a loss of  fluid. I'd stick with 3 or 4.

BigDave LM6174

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Re: Dot 3 or Dot 4 Brake Fluid
« Reply #3 on: August 24, 2013, 10:47:07 AM »
Thanks for input.
Big Dave
KFOCI LM 6174
Whittier, CA.
1951 Kaiser Deluxe
1952 Henry J Corsair Deluxe
1958 Lido 14 Sailboat W/Trailer
1958 Carry All Trailer