Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Maintenance & Servicing Brake Fluid replacement

I am about to service the braking system on my 2004 +4.
I would like to fit braided hoses, 'green' pads and replace the brake fluid.
I have researched the Go Mog site where contributers recommend DOT 5.1 hydraulic brake fluid and cast doubt over the suitability of silicone fluid for road cars.
I cannot establish what fluid is currently in the car and so am unsure how to proceed.
I have contacted a supplier of Morgan goods on the internet for advice, but they would not make a recommendation - although silicone fluid is the only product available on the web site.
Their recommenbdation was to make my own decision.
Does anyone know the fluid that should be in the car?
Has anyone used the 5.1 fluid recommended on the GoMog pages?
http://www.gomog.com/allmorgan/brakefluid.html
All the best
Tony

I've got the upgrades you mention ie braided hoses, 'greens'. ( plus quite a few others) I use dot5.1

Like most of us, I've seen the Lorne Ranger's piece on fluids on the GoMog site but you might find either of these two a little more user friendly:

http://www.opieoils.co.uk/pdfs/tech-articles/Brake-Fluid-Explained.pdf
http://www.aa-academy.com/Training/Learning%20Zone/Brake%20Fluids.asp

The major criticisms of Dot 5 ( silicone based and often described as being a colour very simliar to methylated spirits)) include

1. the fact that because it is so highly compressible it can lead to a very spongy pedal feel
2.plus there can be issues with the extent to which it actually lubricates the braking system
3. its potentiallly damaging effect on rubber components such as piston seals
4. It can also be very difficult to bleed

If you want a very clear comment on some of the problems which have been experienced with silicone fluids, then our very own Dave W is the 'go to' man here:

http://www.v8register.net/subpages/V8NOTE228A.htm


I think one thing which really needs to be taken on board is the need to have a 'clean' system if you are thinking of changing. I tend to play safe and flush the system fairly regularly anyway to try and avoid any hygroscopic issues

HTH
G

PS I notice you'in Southport- why not give Dave Randall at Life's a call?
If you want to chat to someone who will give you loads of info ( but tell them what level you're at technically or you'll end up being overwhelmed by things like wet and dry boiling points!) give merlin Motorsport ( 01249 782101 ) a bell- endlss hours of fun and amusement

Been useing Dot 5 silicone since 1993 never had any bother I changed everything , every rubber etc . Dont find them spongy and can stop the mog on its nose 4 pots and servo . My car was fitted with braided hose on the front in 1993 and the mechanic did not fasten it tight it broke free just short of the motorway on the return from MOG 93 . My insurance broker was behind me at the time . Shook the hell out of me and the mog was sprayed with brake fluid . The Non Mog garage resprayed it I changed to silicone . Stainless steel pistons in callipers etc .