Non-Antilock Brake System Bleeding Procedures

PRESSURE BLEEDING






Before removing the master cylinder cover, wipe it clean to prevent dirt and other foreign matter from dropping into the master cylinder.

CAUTION: Use bleeder tank Special Tool C-3496-B with adapter Special Tool C-4578 to pressurize the system for bleeding.

Follow pressure bleeder manufacturer's instructions, for use of pressure bleeding equipment.






When bleeding the brake system. Some air may be trapped in the brake lines or valves far upstream. As much as ten feet from the bleeder screw. Therefore, it is essential to have a fast flow of a large volume of brake fluid when bleeding the brakes to ensure all the air gets out.






To bleed the brake system. Attach a clear plastic hose to the bleeder screw at one wheel and feed the hose into a clear jar containing fresh brake fluid.






Next, open the bleeder screw at least one full turn or more to obtain an adequate flow of brake fluid.


CAUTION: Just cracking the bleeder screw often restricts fluid flow, and a slow, weak fluid discharge will NOT get all the air out.

After 4 to 8 ounces of fluid has been bled through the brake system. And an air-free flow is maintained in the clear plastic hose and jar, this will indicate a good bleed.

Repeat the procedure at all the other remaining bleeder screws. Then check the pedal for travel. If pedal travel is excessive or has not been improved. Enough fluid has not passed through the system to expel all the trapped air. Be sure to monitor the fluid level in the pressure bleeder, so it stays at a proper level so air will not enter the brake system through the master cylinder.

BLEEDING WITHOUT A PRESSURE BLEEDER

If a pressure bleeder is not available. A good brake fluid flow can be obtained by manual bleeding of the brake hydraulic system, following these steps:

1. Pump the brake pedal three or four times and hold it down before the bleeder screw is opened.

2. Push the brake pedal toward the floor and hold it down. Then open the bleeder screw at least 1 full-turn. When the bleeder screw opens the brake pedal will drop all the way to the floor.

3. Release the brake pedal only after the bleeder screw is closed.

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3, four or five times, at each bleeder screw. This should pass a sufficient amount of fluid to expel all the trapped air from the brake system. Be sure to monitor the fluid level in the master cylinder, so it stays at a proper level so air will not enter the brake system through the master cylinder.

Test drive vehicle to be sure brakes are operating correctly and that pedal is solid.