PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

JimSmith · #10 12-11-2001, 01:49 PM

Hey Guys,

If you would consider changing the rotors for the peace of mind it gives you and because they are only $51 apiece, why would you ever force the old used brake fluid from behind the extended pistons back into the brake hydraulic system? Just flush it out when you are changing the pads! Attach a fuel line hose to the bleed nipple on the caliper and direct the other end where the fluidwill come out to the botom of a pint or so jar. I like using a clear glass jar so I can see the fluid that comes out. Crack open the bleed fitting when you are pushing the pads back into the caliper and there is next to no real resistance, and you will purge the air in the hose, or most of it, and cover the end so no air will get back in later. AFter changing each pad, separately as noted by Larry, you can complete the flushing by adding brake fluid to the reservoir (take care to keep it topped off when you are changing the pads as gravity will drain the reservoir if you leave the bleed fitting open) and pumping the brake with the fitting open. If you have an assistant you can have them close and open the fitting to make yourself feel good about getting all the air out, but if you start of correctly, you will not get any air in there. I have done this for twenty years, to each car when I change pads, and the fluid always comes out blackened (not like Diesel engine oil, but very much discolored) and I run a few cans of fluid through at a couple of bucks a can for all four brakes. Definitely helps keep the calipers happy and not likely to wear out the seal, which causes sticking. Jim