Synthetic fluid

[vipergts]

Apologies but I am sure this must have been covered but my searching abilities are rubbish.

Whats the general opinion on using Synthetic brake and clutch fluid?

Having done a marvelous job on my refurbishment I am keen not to wreck it with spilt fluid

Many Thanks

[e-bygum]

It's all sythetic, do you mean Silicone?

[Heuer]

Both mineral and silicone fluids work well although I cannot think why you would expect to spill any on your paintwork other than through carelessness. The only misconception around Silicone fluid is you can fill and forget but it should be changed at regular intervals. Mineral fluids need to be changed every two years and it can be done simply without spillage using something like a Mity-Vac. Do not use the pressure brake bleeding systems.

If you intend to change from mineral to silicone then your entire braking system will need to be carefully flushed and all traces of the old fluid removed i.e. pipes washed out with cleaner, calipers and master cylinders removed and seals washed or changed. You will have to do the same going the other way. If you elect Silicone then always carry a spare unopened bottle with you on long journeys as it is not generally available if you need a top up for any reason. Personally, and at the risk of upsetting Angus and Christopher, I think it is 'snake oil' with little or no advantage otherwise major car manufacturers would use it. OK if you fill with it as part of your restoration but pointless swapping over mid stream.

[vipergts]

Thanks guys....yes the system is virtually cleaned out with all new components except the rear.

Silicone is where I was coming from.

I've come across weaping hoses near the resevoir many times too which causes concern

[Heuer]

The weeping low pressure hoses are typically the ones sold with a yellow stripe down them. I had that problem after about 5 years so replaced them with the all black ones from SNG - just ask and they will tell you the ones to go for (i.e. no yellow stripe - http://tinyurl.com/nzhaf2 ). You should then have no further problem.