I am a rookie in the world of rebuilding cars and have a lot to learn. I just got my Grandpa's 1958 F100. The first thing I want to do is get it running and back on the road. Since it has not been driven in so long I want to make sure i have the brakes looked at. Looking at the firewall I see the two places were fluid goes for the Brakes and Clutch. Looking at the caps it just says "Use only S.A.E heavy fluid". I am not sure if i can use Dot 3 fluid or if I should use something else. Sounds like the brake lines are all original and fluid has never been added. Does any one know much about this and have any recommendations of what fluid to use? Would the clutch and Brake lines use the same fluid?

 

Probably ought to ask that in the 57 - 60 forum: 1957 - 1960 F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

 

Shoot, I am not sure how I posted it here. Is there a way I can move this or delete it?

 

Welcome to FTE.

You can't delete it, but maybe we can get a moderator to move it.

HEY MODERATOR!!!

Let's see if that works.

 

Doesn't matter what forum you are in, use DOT 3 fluid in both clutch and brake master cylinders!

 

Or DOT 4 (NOT DOT 5 unless you want to completely flush it and replace seals etc.....)

 

Flush all old fluid from both systems. Don't be surprised if you have leaks or problems in any hydraulic system that old. My course would be to rebuild / replace all soft brake components and thoroughly inspect the steel lines for rust. Brakes must be right each and every time.
And welcome to the forum. We really don't care where you post. The answers you get here will be the same as you get in the other forum. And we all charge the same. Again, welcome to the forum.
And DOT 3 is fine in both systems.

 

Thank you guys for all the help. When I was messing with some stuff the pedal dropped to the floor. Looks like I have a little more fun ahead.