Brake System Cleaner? Is there such a thing?

[500HpSilverado]

I'm trying to solve a problem I have. I have mold/algae growing in my brake system. the fluid turns brown in a few days. The brake system works fine, but it looks nasty, the master cylinder has a brown film on the inside of the resevoir. I'm hoping there is a way to flush the system then refill it. anyone have any ideas?

I have completely changed the fluid a few times, I need another option.

[denrep]

Alcohol used to be the answer, at least for brake system flushing.
I don't know about compatibility with newer components.

Seems like denatured alcohol would kill the algae too.
We may have to wait for Oldiron2, the staff chemist.

Good Luck

[ranger_5_0]

BG Products ( http://www.bgprod.com/home.html ) makes flushing products for all automotive applications including brakes. check them out might be helpful.

[rlitman]

I would expect ethanol to damage the rubber seals.

Are you flushing and replacing the brake fluid from a new container? Algae should not be able to grow in dry fluid, but once exposed to air, it will absorb a lot of water, that could make it more compatible with life.

Are you sure the brownness is algae? Could it be rubber seals and components in your brake system, breaking down, and dissolving? Not all brake systems are compatible with all fluids.

[500HpSilverado]

Thanks everyone

No I'm not entirely sure it is algae. The truck is a 2004, I have completely flushed the system 3-4 times now and it still is nasty. I guess it could be seals braking down, but I sure hope not. I used to drive the truck through standing water on a few occasions playing around, I thought that might have something to do with it. My thinking was that since I never have been able to flush the system completely that whatever is "growing" in the lines just kept coming back. The system has the correct fluid in it, I don't remember if it is DOT 3 or 4 but it has whatever the cap calls for.

I might just have that BG flush done that was recommended by Ranger_5_0

[havik180]

How are you bleeding the system ? Start with the wheel furthest from the M/C and work your way to the closest making sure you get clean new fluid at each one before moving to the next . Also check that the M/C cap seal is intact and sealing properly as brake fluid is hygroscopice it absorbs water which in turn contaminates the fluid.

Are you having any other braking issues or brake fluid leaks ?


Rich

[hp246]

I had a similar problem with brown brake fluid. It was a bad master cylinder and brake line. It was allowing air/water into th system, turning the fluid brown.

[specter]

I 2ND hp246 post as I had this problem with my GMC shop truck sucking air into the system. Plus by sucking in air it also was sucking in the air moisture causing a milky chocolate brake fluid.

[500HpSilverado]

I'm going to be tearing into the brake system in the next few weeks it appears, I took the truck to the shop and they couldn't even life the truck with their lift. It's isnt a gigantic truck, just a diesel 4x4 with 8" of lift, but whatever. Im going to pull the master cylinder and replace it and the resevoir, then I wanted to put braided lines on it that are 2" longer so I guess this is a good time to do that as well. I asked around and have been told I can put denatueed alcohol through the steel part of the line only, does everyone agree on this?

[Dualie]

I wouldn't even bother with adding anything but brake fluid. just power flush the system with a good pressure bleeder. You can by brake fluid by the gallon at Napa. Run enough fluid through it till its crystal clear coming out all the bleeders.

I have a motive power bleeder. Best money i ever spent on a brake tool.

[turk]

i took a propane tank and made myself a pressurized brake system bleeder. puts a gallon through in 5 minutes