Brake Fluid Tests Strips

[larryd]

Phoneix Systems sells a simple test strip to test brake fluid that shows when service is required...(www.brakestrips.net) or (www.brakebleeder.com)

I've been using these for several years...

Anyone else have any experience with this product??

The Phoneix company offers FREE tests strip samples...

(ps, I had this posted in the "brake fluid change" topic but no responses)

larryd

 

[Firefly]

Cool stuff---- wonder how well their reverse brake bleeders work?

 

[groundeffect]

Phoneix Systems sells a simple test strip to test brake fluid that shows when service is required...(www.brakestrips.net) or (www.brakebleeder.com)

I've been using these for several years...

Anyone else have any experience with this product??

The Phoneix company offers FREE tests strip samples...

(ps, I had this posted in the "brake fluid change" topic but no responses)

larryd

I looked at this and it seems they check for copper and other things in the fluid, not moisture.

:dontknow:

 

[wyobrit]

I use the test strips in all three of my stores, you are correct that they measure copper content not moisture. By one of the standard bearers of the auto service industry MAP (Motorist Assurance Program) copper content is the only test that should be cause for brake fluid replacement. The strips are expensive, what we do is slice them in half vertically!!! As far as their reverse bleeders, I have been using them for years and they are absolutely invaluable on many vehicles. :2thumbs: Hope this helps

Nick

 

[groundeffect]

I use the test strips in all three of my stores, you are correct that they measure copper content not moisture. By one of the standard bearers of the auto service industry MAP (Motorist Assurance Program) copper content is the only test that should be cause for brake fluid replacement. The strips are expensive, what we do is slice them in half vertically!!! As far as their reverse bleeders, I have been using them for years and they are absolutely invaluable on many vehicles. :2thumbs: Hope this helps

Nick

Nick, thanks for the reply, appreciated.

Maybe you can answer this question: If brake fluid is dark / dirty does this indicate it is:

1. exposed to too much moisture?

2. Contains too much copper?



At any rate, if brake fluid is found dark and dirty, is that a good indication that is should be changed out?


Or is a spongy feel on a brake peddle or level the best indication the brake system should be bleed and fluid replaced?

thank you.

 

[wyobrit]

Unfortunately colour and condition are not an indicator of brake fluid condition in my opinion. Here is an article that may help clear up what the thoughts are behind this. All of my shops are under strict rules that brake fluid is replaced only with copper content excess or contamination (for example with petroleum products and yes we see it more often than you would believe!!)

http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=184909

HTH

Nick

 

[BillGargan]

A spongy brake pedal feel is never caused by the condition of the brake fluid.

While my mechanic days are long past, my recollection of that spongy feeling is that there is air in the system that must be bled out. Optionally the fluid can be replaced followed by a bleeding -- but is not commonly needed.

I suppose it can also result from bad master or slave cylinders -- but, that usually implies leakage or blow-by in the system.

Nick, thanks for the reply, appreciated.

Maybe you can answer this question: If brake fluid is dark / dirty does this indicate it is:

1. exposed to too much moisture?

2. Contains too much copper?



At any rate, if brake fluid is found dark and dirty, is that a good indication that is should be changed out?


Or is a spongy feel on a brake peddle or level the best indication the brake system should be bleed and fluid replaced?

thank you.

 

[wyobrit]

Bill, you are right brake fluid condition will not cause a spongy pedal, of course most people who think this bleed and flush the system which gets the air out which was the original cause and then still blame the fluid!!

Nick