Brake Fluid Solvent

[Joe Z]

Greetings:

Recently purchased an '82 240d w/ 273,000 miles in very good condition. Before starting much "cosmetic" renovation I'm making sure all is at it seems to be, mechanically - that is, all's working!

One thing, however, there was at some point a leak in the master cylinder onto the floor on the driver's side. The padding under the rug is badly dissolved and the paint is mostly removed, also.

I don't think its leaking any more, so I need to clean up the floor. I've vacuumed out the "big chunks" but I'd like to use some sort of solvent to clean up the remaining brake fluid.

Anyone know what is an appropriate solvent for brake fluid??

mineral spirits? alcohol? acetone?

regards...JoeZ

[jbaj007]

Alcohol works great since brake fluid is of that chemical family.

[Kestas]

Brake fluid is a glycol. I think that's just a heavy alcohol. Alcohol will work. Water (with detergent) is good, most everyone is familiar with the hygroscopic (water-absorbing) properties of brake fluid. Use water.

[stevebfl]

Yes, water.

[Joe Z]

Thanks, all.

Water... I never would have suspected! I'd have guessed it would be petroleum based.

Best regards and thanks, again...JoeZ