Bleeding Fluid (archive)

Upon the installation of a new set calipers/pads,I was unable to bleed the right front of the brake system. Is the culpit a valve in the system?
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Humphrey

Humphrey, bleeding the air from the fluid on the E-23 is the most difficult of any system that I have worked on in years. No there is not valve. I believe that this is so difficult due to the double sided pistons on the caliper and the bleeder screws so high on the pistons. I found that using a vacuum pump attached to the bleeder screws solved the problem. If you do use the vacuum pump be sure to monitor the fluid level in the master cylinder to prevent it from emptying and introducting more air into the system. Another thing that may help is using gravity. "crack" open the bleeder screws (use a hose to collect fluid) and leave them set this way overnight. Be sure that the master cylinder is full. The head pressure from the fluid in the master cylinder will fill the calipers. This is a slow process but will remove all the air.

If you are using the pump the pedal method it really helps if you can have the engine running and an assistant.

Be sure you do not have a problem with you new calipers. Are the pistons operating correctly?

Keep at it. It ain't easy. But you can get all the air out!

Good luck.

Follow Ups:

Re: Bleeding Fluid Humphrey 12:05 4/08/2001 (0)

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