Have you checked your Brake Fluid lately?

It only takes four percent water contamination to bring a DOT 3 fluid’s boiling point down to the federal limit.

Compressibility – When a fluid is non-compressible it means it won’t  compress into a smaller volume when pressure is applied.  In a brake system, fluid pressure is multiplied  by the master cylinder and can reach more than 1,000 pounds per square inch(psi) in the lines.  Like any other hydraulic fluid, brake fluid must be non-compressible at the expected pressures to transmit force from one end of the system to the other while simultaneously lubricating the pistons and rubber parts as they move through their bores.  If the fluid were to compress, all braking power would be lost. 

Brake Fluid Maintenance – Brake fluids fail either because they boil or because they cease to provide adequate lubrication and corrosion protection.  Both reasons for failure are the result of contamination, usually by water or petroleum products.

   DOT 3 and DOT 4 polyglycol ether-based brake fluids are hygroscopic, which means they absorb water easily and hold it in suspension, similar to antifreeze.  In most climates, moisture seeps into the brake system continuously through the various seals and microscopic pores of the flexible brake lines.  This seepage can accelerate  as vehicle ages and there’s almost no limit to how much water the fluid can absorb.  By the time brake fluid has been in the system for three years, it can easily reach its wet boiling point.  Because this happens gradually, most drivers won’t discover the reduced braking ability until it’s too late.

  Many owner’s manuals recommend changing brake fluid every 24 months to remove moisture.  Approximately half of all cars and light trucks in the U.S. over 10 years old have never had the brake fluid changed.  In addition, powersports  applications such as motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs require routine brake fluid changes as well.

AMSOIL Series 500 DOT 3 High-Performance and Series 600 DOT 4 Racing Brake Fluid maintain stable viscosities over a wide temperature range and flow easily at low temperatures.  They provide good lubrication though-out the system and their superior additive packages can raise boiling points to more than 232°C (450°F).  They keep water in suspension, slowing its effects on the brake system.  AMSOIL Brake Fluids have high boiling temperatures, ensuring maximum life and reliable braking power, even in extreme conditions.