Trouble Bleeding Explorer Brakes

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Dec 22, 2005 | 05:07 PM

Repsher

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Trouble Bleeding Explorer Brakes

I had to replace a hose on my 1994 4x2 ford explorer today because of a leak. I'm now trying to bleed the brakes and can't get the bleeder screw to budge. 3/8" wench is to small, 7/16" is to big (I striped part of the hex with this) and even tried 10mm which was too small. Already tried prenatrating lube to help but the dang thing won't move. What should I do, I was thinking of getting a 13/32" wrench tomorrow and giving that a try but besides that I don't know what to do. Please help.
Mike

Dec 22, 2005 | 05:14 PM

1081

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From: Kansas City, Missouri

Front or back and drum or disc?

Dec 22, 2005 | 05:16 PM

Repsher

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I'm working on the front right disk brake right now (the one that's giving me trouble). Have drums on the back, think all the bleeder screws should be the same size right?

Dec 22, 2005 | 05:26 PM

1081

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From: Kansas City, Missouri

Let the penetrating lube sit on there overnight and try the wrench thing tomorrow. Occassionally I have been able to get a small socket on it (a little smaller than the valve since it is stripped), tap it down and get them loose. This puts pressure on all sides and not two or three sides. I don't know if it is possible to drill and replace that valve, but I thing the worst case scenario would be replacing the caliper. However, someone els here may have a better idea.

Dec 22, 2005 | 05:29 PM

marragtop

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From: Baltimore

Use a pair of needle nose vice grips. Don't force it, or you will shear it off. Also, you can bleed the hose and the line going to the hose by bleeding it at the bolt that holds the hose to the caliper.

Dec 22, 2005 | 07:10 PM

yield2s

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do as mentioned above and from now on only use a six point socket or box end for any brake fitting.
Those bleeder screws are cheap so just get some new ones.