As I get further into my restoration of the '81 GL... I am now replacing all the brake hoses with SS ones, and rebuilding all the master cylinders and calipers... after all is said and done, I am considering the upgrade to DOT 5.1 Glycol based brake fluid, both for it higher boiling point temp and the ability to still indicate excessive moisture absorption with color change.
Has anyone gone this route?? are there any pitfalls I should look for or avoid other than "don't get it on the paint"?? Any ideas or comments will be greatly appreciated.
Rich
1981 GL 1100
DOT 5.1 Glycol Based Brake Fluid vs. DOT 3 OEM Style
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WingAdmin
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Re: DOT 5.1 Glycol Based Brake Fluid vs. DOT 3 OEM Style
I've heard of people using DOT5 fluid (after completely purging the original DOT3 from the system), and not having problems. Whether the rubber seals in the system will tolerate DOT5.1 or not, I don't know. If you choose to try, do let us know how it works out.
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thrasherg
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Re: DOT 5.1 Glycol Based Brake Fluid vs. DOT 3 OEM Style
Dot5.1 is not an issue as it is glycol based, dot 5.0 is an issue as it's silicon based and cannot be mixed with other DOT fluids. I have not upgraded my goldwing to 5.1 but have done other sport bikes and never had an issue. As long as you use 5.1 you should be fine.
Gary
Gary