Identify DOT brake fluid using water

[farmall]

Neat trick with clear video of the differences between fluids as shown by attempting to mix them with water. If you're not sure what's in your system this could avoid having to disassemble and flush it after adding the wrong fluid.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aMf3I0ez5s

[DustyDave]

Dot 5 feels more like snot between a thumb and forefinger. Dot 3, 4 &5.1 feel thinner.

[confab]

I've seen purple dye in 5 and 5.1.

[farmall]

Same here. IMO is should have been the standard as it's a bit more convenient.

[JBinNC]

I've seen purple dye in 5 and 5.1.

The purple color goes away with age. And Dot5 and Dot5.1 are two very different fluids, so both being purple will just confuse things further.

Jim

[confab]

The purple color goes away with age. And Dot5 and Dot5.1 are two very different fluids, so both being purple will just confuse things further.

Jim

Yeah.. I didn't know the difference and the guy at the autozone (I think?) didn't either.

My master cylinder leaked after that. I think it was the fluid.

Dot 5 only.

[Guest]

Thank you very much, this is such an easy and convenient way to distinguish the brake fluid base. And most importantly, a glass of water can always be found at any car service.