Re: Bleeding ABS Brake Lines

[Daniel Hussey <GY3WSX@VM.SC.EDU>]

   David,

   The Bentley manuals say the proper bleeding procedure for ABS equipped cars
is to have them pressure bled. Your dealer should be able to do this.  I have
heard several people say they had NO problem and NO air, bleeding it the std
pump on pedal, open valve method (2 person method).  But, I did this 5 times
and still had air in my lines.  I finnaly bought a portable pressure brake
bleeder.  It took me several times doing this to finnaly get it right, as I
kept sprining leaks and having to re-do the whole damn procedure.

    The factory specifies to use a pressure bleeder, but I don't see any reason
why a vaccum bleeder wouldn't work just as well.  Yes, try it at each wheel,
starting from the right rear (one furthest from the brake MC) and ending with
the left front (one closest to the MC).  Bleed it out real well with a good
brake fluid (like Castrol GT/LMA).  If your using a different fluid that what's
in there now, make sure all the old fluid it out!

    You may want to bleed the clutch at this time as well (if you have one).
That bleeder valve is a little tricky to find and I had to look for it every
time.  Also, if you're using a vaccum bleeder, make sure you keep the MC fluid
reservior FULL!  If you let it get too low it will suck in air, and you got it!
You'll have to repeat the whole damn process!

    Having an air free brake system is important, as this is what brake fluid
will suck moisture out of, and will contaminate the system.  And, this is what
will wear out the seals in the MC and corrode the inside of the MC.  You want
as little air as possible.  And, also, if you're like me, you HATE a mushy
brake pedal!!!! ;)  Even after all the fooling around with mine, it was still
a little soft for my taste, but I think that was due to 10 year old stock
brake lines.  SS lines would definately help with this as well, but is no
substitute for a good flush and brake bleed!  Good luck!

    Later,
    Dan