I just got a Power Bleeder to flush all the brake systems - very handy device and I recommend it.

In several cases I have found a blocked bleeder screw. One case blocked from the inside and one case from the outside due to the car not having the rubber bleed screw covers. If you don't get fluid flow when bleeding be sure to take the bleeder screw all the way out.

In another case that I have yet to put time into to diagnose, I can't get any fluid flow with the bleed screw entirely out. Cracking the connection where the metal line meets the rear flexible hose, there is flow. So, I have new rear brake hoses on order. My brother mentioned that there might be a blockage inside the caliper at the hose connection - but I see that as less likely than the ORIGINAL hose going bad (on a 1982 300D).

I think I have driven the car for two years with no brakes on the passenger rear! The symptom consistent with that is a feeling that the car shifts slightly when you let your foot off the brake after braking to a stop. Sort of like spring tension being wound up on one side of the rear but not the other. But in general stops the car appeared to have excellent brakes.

As a comment, I have observed that the 1982 300D has front caliper pistons on both sides, while the 1987 300D has a larger piston on just one side. Interesting design tradeoff involved I'm sure.

The 1987 just got new calipers on the front because the driver's side started dragging, enough to smoke. I attempted a rebuild but when the piston popped out the chrome had tiny blisters on one side and scruff marks on the other. Just the tiniest group of blisters is enough to ruin it apparently. I picked off one of the chrome blisters and it had rust under it. Did new front brake hoses there too.

So, with all this brake work, I can strongly recommend the Power Bleeder (do a Google search for it) and it is available directly from the manufacturer - also they have great deals on premium brake fluid - like ATE Super Racing Fluid (blue or gold - alternate colors when flushing annually so you can see when its done by the color change).

Ken300D