Brake bleeding methods
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Mountain Pass
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 197
Likes: 3
Brake bleeding methods
Im about to install a new master cylinder on my truck and was wondering about the handy vacuum bleeders that hook to the air compressor. Anyone bleed their breaks using that or a hand pump to pull the air out of each caliper? Curious about the experience and if you were able to get all the air out of the system.
Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 4,436
Likes: 19
From: Regina, Saskatchewan
The only way I've ever done it and will ever do it is with a helper.
My helper sits in the truck and gets the easy job.
I crack open the bleeder as I shout out commands (up or down to indicate pedal travel). I have always had good results using this method and can usually get a really good amount of pressure built up in the system in addition to no air bubbles.
I've never had good luck with any other method.
My helper sits in the truck and gets the easy job.
I crack open the bleeder as I shout out commands (up or down to indicate pedal travel). I have always had good results using this method and can usually get a really good amount of pressure built up in the system in addition to no air bubbles.
I've never had good luck with any other method.
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Mountain Pass
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 197
Likes: 3
I was always the helper growing up. lol. I agree that its an absolutely fail proof method . I was just curious how well these vacuum methods have been working out....
this sounds like a solid method. I figured hand pump was probably the better of the two.
Hand pump with teflon tape on the bleeder screw threads and grease around the tube.
More Turbo
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 710
Likes: 3
From: Oregon
I used the bottle method which allows you to bleed the brakes on your own. Look up ChrisFix on youtube on brake flushing he shows the bottle method. Works excellent.
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Grumpy goat
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 3,058
Likes: 594
Yep, my preferred method also. It works. And I don't have to wonder if a helper is depressing brake pedal too little, or so hard that he's bending the pushrod. I can also gravity bleed since I got rid of the old factory proportioning valve.
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 1,207
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From: S.E. Louisiana;so far USA
Since I generally don't have a helper, I'll put a clear tubing on the bleeder and put it into a container and use the gravity method, assuming it will flow. It's often a bit slow, but with patience it will get the job done.
Cargo Master
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 2,212
Likes: 322
From: Central Florida
Russell has a number of products in a category they call "Speed Bleeder" that might be worthy of a look/see. I have no experience with it but it looked interesting. Here is a Summit search that shows most of these options.
FTE Legend
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 30,828
Likes: 4,094
From: Angier, NC
Im about to install a new master cylinder on my truck and was wondering about the handy vacuum bleeders that hook to the air compressor. Anyone bleed their breaks using that or a hand pump to pull the air out of each caliper? Curious about the experience and if you were able to get all the air out of the system.
Yes on the vacuum bleeder, a Snap-On unit. Not 100% good after 1 qt of fluid pulled thru but gave me a peddle so could stop the truck when moving in & out of garage. Once I got a helper the 2 person way got the rest of the air out.
I should also let you know the system was completely drained, new calipers & wheel cly. and lines drained as was the master.
I think the only way a 1 person can bleed the system good is with a pressure bleed system. I have also tried the drip way over time (24 hr) and it also gave me a pedal but not good enough to drive with.
Dave ----
FTE Legend
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 30,828
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From: Angier, NC
I have all the parts to make a pressure bleeder other then the master lid.
Well I have the rubber for the gasket and think I have the metal just needed to come up with chain & bolts.
That was 6 or 7 years ago now and all still in a box on the shelf.
Dave ----
Well I have the rubber for the gasket and think I have the metal just needed to come up with chain & bolts.
That was 6 or 7 years ago now and all still in a box on the shelf.
Dave ----