Nissin Front MC / Complete Rebuild Of Every Brake Component Use Dot 4 ??

[buzzkilr]

2000 XLH 1200 I'm running 7/8" bars and using a brand new Nissin front MC. Brand new brake lines, rebuilt calipers and rear MC. My question..... can I used DOT 4? Compatible with the Nissin MC and much cheaper to buy. Also I've read that DOT 5 will F up the Nissin MC? Not sure if thats true. Hoping someone else has been through this same situation.

[DustyDave]

If you switch to dot 4 every bit of the brake system must be completely cleaned and then if you get a leak or spill DOT 3 and 4 are incredibly effective paint strippers. If I switch either way I flush all the lines with denatured alcohol then dry with compressed air. As long as there was never any DOT 3 or 4 in the master I wouldn't think it would hurt to use DOT 5. Only reason I can think of that you couldn't use DOT 5 in a new master would be if it was assembled with DOT 3 or 4 as assembly lube as a cost cutting measure. If this is the case that manufacturer would be off my list to purchase from forever! Dot 5 is a much better choice for a motorcycle!
Dusty

[buzzkilr]

Thanks Dusty Dave! I really appreciate the help! DOT 5 it is!

PS does DOT 5 need to be changed out more often than 3/4?

[TriNortchopz]

Thread: Would DOT 5 Brake Fluid work in DOT 4 brake systems? Read before, before Answering.

http://www.chopcult.com/forum/showthread.php?t=52297

[thecarfarmer]

The real question is why a guy would use anything but DOT 5

The earlier brake fluids are hydroscopic, they pull water out of the air. DOT 5 is not. So, it actually lasts longer and is less corrosive to the metals in the brake system

The only downside to it is that it is somewhat more expensive (which can be offset by not buying a six pack, or an overpriced Starbucks drink), and is not compatible with ABS systems.

I always put it into any vehicle wherever I am cleaning the entire brake system out and starting with a new fill and no contamination of old fluid. Non-negotiable.

Of course, if any of the components have been exposed to earlier brake fluids, everything needs to be disassembled and completely cleaned. Any contamination between these two makes a reaction between them that gums everything up.

[buzzkilr]

Thanks for all the help

Yes I'm going to run DOT 5 but was unsure if it would be Ok to run it in the new Nissin m/c I have. Looks like it is fine to do just that. Boy it was sure tough to find at my local auto parts stores that for sure!

[docmel]

Thanks for all the help

Yes I'm going to run DOT 5 but was unsure if it would be Ok to run it in the new Nissin m/c I have. Looks like it is fine to do just that. Boy it was sure tough to find at my local auto parts stores that for sure!

Myself, on modern systems, use what the manufactorers recommend. Besides DOT 5 being more expensive, its hard to find in your corner parts stores (Which is weird, 3 years ago or so you could find it everywhere)