Recently there has been a thread about brake fade, possibly due to old brake fluid. Silicone fluid was mentioned, something to avoid. But why? I have heard many reasons, but what is really true, what is myth. I am not embarking on a crusade for or against silicone, but would really like to know what are proven facts and what is beliefs just passing from person to person citing each other.
I have heard:
Silicone will make rubber parts in the system swell
Silicone will make rubber turn into a goo
Silicone and ordinary fluid will form a gel if mixed.
Silicone is a bit more compressible and give a softer feel to the pedal
Silicone is routinely used i NATO vehicles (which are stored for long periods) without modifications, no issues.
Silicone can produce adverse effects in an old car with old rubber quality, but not so in a reasonably new car
True? False? Anybody know? And by that, I do mean know?
All this said, I do admit that I have silicone fluid in my car, but as I said no crusader - just curious. The car is from 2004, changed to silicone (after thorough flushing) about four years ago, no issues. The person who persuaded me has a total of seven cars, ranging from a modern Tesla to a pre-war Nash and MG, a Volvo PV 1800, a couple of old Merc and a late 90ies +8. No issues on any of them. I admit this is anecdotica
Are we on a highway to hell? Or have my friend and I actually seen the light?
Regards,
Robbie
