questions on brake fluid flush for 16v - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

jasondew · #1 06-18-2002, 08:43 PM

can anyone tell me how to flush the brakes on my 16v. i'm going to be replacing the rotors, lines, and pads soon and the fluid is overdue for changing. i have a good idea what to do for a normal flush but changing the lines complicates things i imagine. where are the bleeder valves? also, is it worth my time to try to install emergency/parking brake pads? they are badly worn and it is a drum style brake so i don't have a clue how to change them.

thanks

Ali Al-Chalabi · #2 06-19-2002, 08:18 AM

Bleeder valves are on the calipers. Just do the same thing you would for a normal flush after everything is back together. The purpose of flushing is to get all of the air out of the lines, so after the new pads, rotors, and lines are in place then do the flush.

For the parking brake shoes, if they are not holding the car very well, then I would go ahead and replace them.

Tinker · #3 06-19-2002, 12:13 PM

How do you know the parking brake pads are worn? Did you measure them? It is not like you use them to stop the car...do you? You only use them to hold the car once stopped. Maybe you just need to adjust your parking brake at the cable junction under the car??????

If they do need replacing, they`re not that difficult to do. Follow the manual.

When you bleed the brakes, most mechanics recommend pressure bleeders. I did mine the old way, by pumping.

****Make sure the master cylinder reservoir is filled completely. There are two chambers to it. I couldn`t get my rears to flow/bleed fluid until I shook it to get the second chamber to fill***

Tinker

jasondew · #4 06-19-2002, 05:51 PM

i guess it's possible the e-brake pads aren't worn and i just need and adjustment. the thing i noticed, is that i have to pull the handle all the way up now to get the e-brake to engage. how do i adjust the cable properly?

so, for the install of the brake parts, i just R&R all the parts and flush after? i'll just do it the old fashion way as i don't want to invest in a pressure bleeder.

any hints or pitfalls?

thanks