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any1 can tell diff btw Braking oil Dot3 & Dot4?


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#1
tracky

Posted 12 May 2003 - 08:32 AM

tracky

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any1 can tell diff btw Braking oil Dot3 & Dot4?
Dot3?Dot4?
wat difference?
how to choose?
TQ

#2
gregy

Posted 12 May 2003 - 11:53 AM

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Basically what I can remember about the diff. between Dot 3 and Dot 4 is
the higher boiling point of the latter. For prolonged braking esp when
negotiating the bends coming down from Genting, the higher the boiling
point the better. Once the fluid boils, it evaporates, causing a loss in
braking efficiency. I also remember that Dot 4 resists corrosion better
than Dot 3, hence its higher cost.

You can use Dot 4 to replace Dot 3, but be sure to completely drain out
the old Dot 3 first, you shouldn't mix them. And, if you use Dot 4, be
sure to inform your mechanic about it during your next service, otherwise
he might accidentally top up with normal Dot 3. I believe that Dot 3 is
usually red in colour while Dot 4 is clear to slightly yellowish.

There is a higher fluid type called Dot 5, but do not use it on your car
unless the manufacturer states it specifically. Dot 5 is a synthetic fluid
meant for high performance use, and unless your brake hoses/lining are
designed for it, using it in normal cars may cause your brake system to
deteriorate. I'm not sure if anybody sells Dot 5 anymore, but just thought
you'd like to know in case some workshop tries to push it to you.



#3
tracky

Posted 12 May 2003 - 12:28 PM

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oic..
if DOT3 dangerous?
how long i hav to change my brake oil?
TQ

#4
Iskandar

Posted 12 May 2003 - 02:39 PM

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tracky,

DOT3 is not dangerous for normal usage.

Interval : manufacturer spec is not more than 24months - reason - its
hygroscpic - absorbs moisture from atmospheric air.

Once that happens its properties also diminish.

Personally I change it once a year - that's about RM30 plus for a litre of
brake fluid.

DOT 5.1 also can use, just make sure its not DOT 5 as that is silicone
based while the DOT5.1 has the same properties as DOT 3 or DOT4 systems.

If in doubt just stick to DOT 4 and do it at annual intervals.

Isk

#5
tracky

Posted 13 May 2003 - 11:28 PM

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if DOT 3 mixed wit DOT 4 then wat will happended?


#6
jktlee

Posted 14 May 2003 - 06:20 PM

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From my knowledge it is recommend only if you are using the same type.
Example BOSCH DOT 3 and DOT 4 is okay if you do mix together. But in the
long run is better to bleed and using DOT4 or DOT 5.1 as suggested earlier
but Iskandar.

The reason is that if you really compare DOT 3 and DOT 4 the price is
really small difference. So why don;t go for DOT 4 instead. Currently
BOSCH just release a new one called DOT 4 Super which is better and cost
only $30 for 1 liter can. Enough for you to do a complete bleed of the
brakes one time with spare for you to top up. Highly recommended.

jktlee

#7
SA6

Posted 16 May 2003 - 03:00 PM

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I hv heard some user face braking problem after up grading to higher grade
break oil. So use only manufacture recomended grade of break fluid to be
safe. Want improvement to your braking system , use good quality break
pad, make sure your break system is good working condition, fluid has been
change to recomended grade, your break servo is working properly and no
leak to your vacum hose to the servo.