Abeness wrote:
> I'd like to change the brake fluid in my 94 Civic with ABS, but I'm
> unsure of the best method to ensure that all or most fluid is replaced.
> It looks to me like changing the fluid in the ABS unit is beyond my DIY
> capabilities. The bleeder T-wrench would cost $116, and the ALB Checker
> would be $825! Certainly not items I'd consider purchasing for the
> couple of times I'd use them.
>
> So the question is, is it worth replacing the fluid in the primary
> system when it won't be possible for me to replace the ABS fluid? My ABS
> *rarely* activates. Should I at least suck out the fluid in the ABS
> reservoir and replace at least that, in addition to replacing the fluid
> in the primary system, then activate the ABS unit by stopping suddenly
> on loose gravel or sandy ground several times to "mix" some of the new
> fluid with the old? I need to activate the ABS a few times periodically
> anyway, I've heard here, to avoid significant problems with the unit
> down the road.
>
> Can I suck the old fluid out of just the ABS reservoir and pour new in
> *without* having to bleed the unit?
>
> Should I simply find a shop that can change the fluid and have them do
> both systems?
>
> If it's worth doing the primary system myself, would it be
> reasonable/correct to suck out the master cylinder, refill with new
> fluid, then, at the bleeder screws at each caliper, suck through a bunch
> of fluid to clear the old and replace with new? Anyone have any idea how
> many ML of fluid are in each pipe, between master cylinder and each
> caliper? Maybe the color will be different, maybe not... I have no idea
> when the fluid was last changed as the owner didn't pass on the repair
> record. I did get a monster quart bottle of brake fluid to do this, so I
> suppose I'll just suck through a bunch and try not to overdo it. ;-)
>
> Tips from experience would be appreciated. I can't afford to screw it up
> and not have the use of the car immediately afterwards, at least not
> this week. Planning to do it Tue if I have time. TIA.

===================

For now, just get a helper and bleed the main brakes. Engine off, pump
the pedal lightly a few times until all vacuum is gone. Put a 2x4 under
the brake pedal so your helper doesn't push the pedal any lower than it
usually goes in real use. Buy a cheap turkey baster (dollar store) to
suck the reservoir empty empty before starting.

Get some clear Tygon tubing from the wine making store that will fit the
nipples. Blead front left, front right, rear right, then rear left.

You don't need to put the end of the hose submerged, since you will be
turning the nipple OFF each time the helper says 'down'. Make sure they
go back up slowly, too.

Any brand of DOT 3 or 4 is OK, just don't SHAKE it before pouring, and
make sure it's fresh.

You should do the ABS too, later. We'll talk.

'Curly'