Flushing the Brake Fluid / Brake Inspection

[sikwan]

My 2006 was purchased 3/2006. It's now 2009 with 32,000 miles and I thought it would be a good time to flush the brake fluid and do a visual inspection of the brakes.

I purchased the Mityvac MV6835 (http://www.mityvac.com/pages/products_bcbe.asp#MV6835) for $123.57, no tax, free ship.
http://sprinter-source.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=11875&d=1236550774
This is all the items that I got in the box with two booklets of instructions.

I first did my flush and inspection from the back. Usually it's better to do the flush starting from the brake that is farthest from the master cylinder, which is usually the passenger rear on left hand drive Sprinters. But as I realized later this may not be the case for the Sprinter.

Passenger side rear brake.
11881
T50 bolt holds the rotor.

18mm bolts (2x) that hold the caliper
11883

Still a lot of meat on the pads.
11882

Close up of disc (left) to sensor (right) distance.
11884
The ATE brand stamped on the left side of the caliper.

Driver side rear brake.
11885

I removed the caliper and removed the T50 bolt so that I could remove the rotor to do a visual inspection of the parking brake shoes. I hit the rotor around the circumference of wheel mating surface with a rubber mallet to see if I could knock it lose. With the parking brake disengaged, I couldn't get the rotor off. I spun the rotor and lightly tapped the braking surface with the rubber mallet, but I still couldn't get it to come off. :hmmm:

Since the rear pads were still good, I'm sure the brake shoes were in good condition. I'll have to revisit this with a rotor removal tool as I needed to get the flushing done.

[sikwan]

Driver side sensor (left) to brake disc (right) distance.
11886
You can barely see the ATE stamped on the right side of the caliper.

Pad still has meat on it and rotor looks good.
11887

Now for the real stuff...

11mm to open the bleed nipple for all four corners.
11888

Galfer Super DOT 4.
11889
I bought each bottle for $5.99 / 17.64oz from rockymountainmc.com (http://www.rockymountainmc.com/productDetail.do?navType=type&webTypeId=29&navTitle=Brakes&webCatId=15&prodFamilyId=1191).

The old fluid currently between the Max and Min lines.
11890

[sikwan]

The filtering screen on the master cylinder bottle.
11891

I needed to remove it for the Mityvac bottle attachment.
11892

The fluid had a hint of brown in it. Time to change it.
11893

Left the filter on the reservoir cap.
11894

I sucked out as much as I could of the old fluid with a rubber syringe.
11906
I think it'll be easier using the extra Mityvac hose to do this. I wasn't thinking at the time.

[sikwan]

Attached the Mityvac bottle to the reservoir with two bottles of the Galfer Super DOT 4 fluid.
11907
The nozzle end was between the Max and Min lines. The valve was opened.

As the instructions say, it's normal to see fluid and bubbles flow through the tube because air is coming through the nipple threads. The instructions say to use silicon grease around the threads to prevent air from leaking into the tube. Others have mentioned to use teflon tape on the threads. I didn't use either and once I thought about it, as long as I...

create a vacuum on the hose attachment before opening and after closing the nipple, air should not get into the system.

I did just that and I verified it with my wife pumping and holding the brake pedal while I opened the nipple. No air bubbles exited. It certainly would've made the flush faster if I had the threads sealed.

11mm wrench with vacuum attachment.
11908

The setup.
11909
Once I connect the air hose to Mityvac attachment and push the lever to on, the clear hose starts to evacuate by vacuum.

I open the nipple. Fluid and air (from threads) start to flow.
11910

Close up of the old fluid being evacuated from the system and air (from threads).
11911

[sikwan]

The bottle gurgles during the evacuation process.
11912
I finish both sides of the rear brake using two bottles (probably less).

The dirty fluid.
11913

Now for the front brakes...

Passenger side sensor (left) to disc rotor (right).
11914

Passenger caliper.
11915

Now I know what type of pads I need to buy when it comes time.
11916

[sikwan]

Passenger side, outside surface of disc rotor. Looks good.
11917

Passenger side, inside surface of disc rotor. Looks good.
11918

Driver side, outside surface of disc rotor. Looks good.
11919

Driver side, inside surface of disc rotor. Looks good.
11920

Driver side, disc rotor (left) to sensor (right) distance.
11921

[sikwan]

I don't expect it to be any different on the driver's side front caliper, but you never know.
11922

Driver side front caliper.
11923

The fronts didn't take much to flush.
11924
There's probably more clear than brown to this fluid.

I finished the project by rinsing the filter with the Galfer fluid.
11925
I finished everything up and and went for a drive. The brakes worked like before.

Some thoughts:

1. If I wasn't doing a visual inspection (or taking picture for this write-up for that matter), I think I could've done it without removing the wheels.

2. It would have been better to activate the ABS, via DRBIII, to agitate the fluid inside the ABS during the flush, but it's better than nothing.

3. For this exercise, I started the flush at the passenger side rear brake because it's the farthest from the master cylinder. Only thing is, all brake lines in the Sprinter extend from the ABS unit (right under the master cylinder), individually, to each brake at each corner. There's no T-connection of any sort that separates a line going to the back, so I'm not even sure starting from the farthest from the master cylinder has any merit at least in this Sprinter exercise.

4. A different colored brake fluid would certainly make it easier to see than going from dark yellow to light yellow.

5. It would be good to run the flush and to let the compressor rest. I don't have a 100% duty cycle compressor. Although it is an oil filled (quieter) compressor, I do worry about it blowing up midway through the flush. To create that vacuum, a lot of air is needed so my compressor is running constantly during a single brake flush.

6. I think 4 bottles of the Galfer (17.64oz) fluid was enough for this flush.

Side note:

I had enough spare fluid to flush a 2004 Subaru Forester brake system (never has been done before) with wheels on and the hydraulic clutch on a 1997 S10 NV1500 (flushed manually 5+ years ago. it was black coming out) all on the same day. The S10 brakes were already flushed out to get ready for the Sprinter.

The Mityvac certainly does the job much faster than the normal pump & hold method.

[rvdriverca]

Should you not be using +4 brake fluid? Or do I have this wrong.

[sikwan]

Should you not be using +4 brake fluid? Or do I have this wrong.

No, you're right. I just haven't added the information.

http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3659

The Galfer Super DOT 4 is the same as DOT 4 Plus, which is noted by its temperature relation.
http://sprinter-source.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=11889&d=1236551894
I'll list the temperatures and their related DOT variants soon enough. Thanks!

[Ciprian]

So, what is the difference between DOT 4 and DOT 4+ fluid? Can DOT 4 be used?

[rlent]

Nice write up Seek !

[sikwan]

So, what is the difference between DOT 4 and DOT 4+ fluid? Can DOT 4 be used?

The difference is temperature.

Theoretically the two are compatible, which means you can mix them, but you'll be lowering the boiling point if you use regular DOT 4.

DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 4 Plus (or Super DOT 4), and DOT 5.1 can be mixed. Only thing I've found is that they differ in temperature boiling points. They are all polyethylene glycol based. User Amauri is using DOT 5.1 (http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showpost.php?p=41949&postcount=18).

DOT 5 cannot be mixed with the above, because it's silicon based.

[jdcaples]

Excellent write-up, Seek. Thank you!

-Jon

[KL2BE]

Great write-up :popcorn: :rad: :cheers: !
These shared tutorials are worth a great deal and very much appreiated by a lot of folks :clapping:.
Since my Sprinter ('06 chassis) has only 25,000 miles my first break-flushing project should be my 15 year-old Isuzu Trooper with 90,000 miles; I imagine it's fluid is looking a bit off color by now :eek:.

[abittenbinder]

Please read my Tech Alert on this brake flushing (http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6121) subject so you can decide when to 'DIY' this procedure and when you should visit a technician.

I would also caution DIY'ers without ESP, to temporarily secure the ALB's rear brake proportioning valve lever (using a wire or tie) to the full load position to allow proper pressure or vacuum extraction of the old fluid. Doktor A

[cdman1674]

Doktor A,
I asked my dealer what equipment they use to do a brake flush as was told that they don't have a special piece of equipment. They use the "SCAN TOOL" to activate the sprinters brake pump and flush it that way? This doesn't sound like the use of the "factory DRBIII " or is it?:thinking:
Thanks Chris
2004 142,000 miles

[abittenbinder]

Doktor A,
I asked my dealer what equipment they use to do a brake flush as was told that they don't have a special piece of equipment. They use the "SCAN TOOL" to activate the sprinters brake pump and flush it that way? This doesn't sound like the use of the "factory DRBIII " or is it?:thinking:
Thanks Chris
2004 142,000 miles

The 'scan tool' your Sprinter dealer is referring to is the DRBIII (for pre-'07 Sprinters).

The DRBIII activation of the ABS pump and solenoid valves should be done in conjunction with pressure bleeding using a commercially available generic pressure bleeding/flushing device. I would not recommend using the ABS pump alone to move the quantity of brake fluid necessary to completely flush the system of old fluid. Doktor A

[312 diesel (closed)]

Please read my Tech Alert on this brake flushing (http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6121) subject so you can decide when to 'DIY' this procedure and when you should visit a technician.

I would also caution DIY'ers without ESP, to temporarily secure the ALB's rear brake proportioning valve lever (using a wire or tie) to the full load position to allow proper pressure or vacuum extraction of the old fluid. Doktor A

If the fluid is flushed without the DRBIII tool don't the remnants of the old fluid just get flushed into the system as the van is driven. Presumably if that is the case then regular maintenance will be adequate to maintain a satisfactory brake fluid condition?

However, if you break into the systen does this mean the system cannot be purged of air without the ESP tool? That could be a real pain for the DIY mechanic. I know some Volkswagen cars cannot be bled at all without plugging the car into the appropriate computer.

[KL2BE]

If the fluid is flushed without the DRBIII tool don't the remnants of the old fluid just get flushed into the system as the van is driven. Presumably if that is the case then regular maintenance will be adequate to maintain a satisfactory brake fluid condition?

Contamination of air in the brake system (the oxygen oxidizes the brake fluid and the water vapor is absorbed) occurs chiefly at the master cylinder reservoir; minorly at the air/cylinder interface at the master cylinder and calipers.
Contaminated fluid either migrates into the recesses of the ABS valving; or it does not :hmmm:. If it does, then a maintenace flush will dilute the contaminated fluid with fresh fluid. The delution should be minor given the relative volumes. If it does not migrate into those recesses, then the fluid there should never become contaminated :thinking:. Using this logic, the use of the DRBIII should be unnecessary :popcorn:.
What am I missing? :idunno: Is there another mechanism by which the brake fluid in the recesses is degraded? :thinking: And, if degraded, how can it do harm if it does not migrate to the calipers where it can heat-up and boil? :rolleyes:
I would use this kind of risk analysis: What are the odds that I will cause harm doing an incomplete DIY job versus the odds an ill trained or careless technician at a Chrysler Dealer will screw something up? :hmmm: So far in my life-experience, the odds of a screw-up at a Dealer Service Department are so high as to be verging on inevitable. :rant: Thank GOD for highly skilled independant shops like DR. A :thumbup:.

[sikwan]

Contamination of air in the brake system (the oxygen oxidizes the brake fluid and the water vapor is absorbed) occurs chiefly at the master cylinder reservoir; minorly at the air/cylinder interface at the master cylinder and calipers.

To add, there's also heat from braking that breaks the fluid down. Probably not as bad as the heat surrounding the clutch slave cylinder fluid in vehicles with a hydraulic clutch, but I know the section of fluid that is near the transmission/engine/slave cylinder comes out as a black sludge if not flushed periodically.

Contaminated fluid either migrates into the recesses of the ABS valving; or it does not :hmmm:. If it does, then a maintenace flush will dilute the contaminated fluid with fresh fluid. The delution should be minor given the relative volumes. If it does not migrate into those recesses, then the fluid there should never become contaminated :thinking:. Using this logic, the use of the DRBIII should be unnecessary.

I wonder if an accidental activation of the ABS should mix things as well. :smilewink:

Kind of like if you don't use your A/C, diesel fired heater, etc., seals start drying out. Use it or lose it.

[Altered Sprinter]

Bumping this thread.
We have a few new members who may think just changing brake pads over is the same as a forty year old Ford with disc pad replacement. Read and enjoy.
NOTE: ATE sensors belong on the outside pad not the in-side pad. [ATE Only]
Richard

[kkanuck]

I just spoke with an Independent reputable MB Service shop near me, and the owner thought I was nuts to change Brake Fluid every 2 years. If I lived in a cold climate, it would be different, and that is where moisture can get into the brake lines I was told. But here in Atlanta where i live, he told me it was a waste, that the fluid is synthetic nowadays, and this dot4+ does not break down like older fluids did.


What are some other's thoughts on this? I also have an 06 MB eclass and same thing, only 20K miles on it, should I be changing this fluid, or is it unnecessary based on my climactic conditions?


Cheers

[sikwan]

I will venture to say that I've never even flushed my fluid in my other vehicles until it was time to change the pads/drums, which comes out to around 50k miles each time or more. With 10k miles a year, this comes out to 5 years.

I think you'll be okay. The fluid will still absorb moisture and that will affect the brake lines more than the braking. I do it because the fluid is cheap (relatively to the cost of the van), I do my own service, and I have the tool to do it fast (no pumping pedal).

My vehicles are for the long term. If it wasn't, I wouldn't do it. :smilewink:

On a side note...I have to flush the DOT3 fluid out of my clutch at least every 2 years on my 13 year old vehicle, because it turns to black sludge (near the slave) and makes depressing the clutch hard. It's either due to the heat or the seals are going bad. :idunno:

[kkanuck]

I will venture to say that I've never even flushed my fluid in my other vehicles until it was time to change the pads/drums, which comes out to around 50k miles each time or more. With 10k miles a year, this comes out to 5 years.

I think you'll be okay. The fluid will still absorb moisture and that will affect the brake lines more than the braking. I do it because the fluid is cheap (relatively to the cost of the van), I do my own service, and I have the tool to do it fast (no pumping pedal).

My vehicles are for the long term. If it wasn't, I wouldn't do it. :smilewink:

On a side note...I have to flush the DOT3 fluid out of my clutch at least every 2 years on my 13 year old vehicle, because it turns to black sludge (near the slave) and makes depressing the clutch hard. It's either due to the heat or the seals are going bad. :idunno:


Seek,


I too am in for the long haul, and plan on keeping her a long time. I just hate doing work not necessary, and a lot of service recommendations especially with MBUSA seems to be a lot more frequent that MB Global, pointing to MBUSA wanting to generate money via this lucrative concept called Service.

I purchased a manual bleeder, with a hand pump action, made by these folks http://www.amazon.com/Motive-Gear-0100-European-Bleeder/dp/B0002KM5L0/ref=pd_sbs_auto_3

It is different from your power system with the separate reservoir. Having not figured out how to do it yet with this system, and hearing this mechanic tell me what he did regarding climactic conditions, I am hiding form this service, but know I should do it. I also need to do it on my E Class, but that has SBC brakes and is dangerous to work on if not careful, add to this Dr. A stating this is not the best service to be a DIY due to not being able to purge the ABS using the DRB III computer.

But I am all for learning and doing it myself, I enjoy this, I just have to jump in the ditch and get through it. I am at 5 years, 63K miles on the Sprinter currently, so I would think it would not hurt me to try.....

[kkanuck]

I just bought a set of these (www.speedbleeder.com) and installed them on a GMC pickup, and will now do it on the Sprinter.

The unit has a check valve, and no need for a second person!

Worked like a champ.


Has anyone else seen or heard of these by chance?

[Gulf SV]

I just bought a set of these (www.speedbleeder.com) and installed them on a GMC pickup, and will now do it on the Sprinter.

The unit has a check valve, and no need for a second person!

Worked like a champ.


Has anyone else seen or heard of these by chance?

I have them on my race and street motorbikes. They are fantastic. Racebike fluid is changed every two race weekends.

Considering I do need to rely on my binders for full on slowdowns from 140 to 30mph for some corners, I consider my testimony to be EXPERT. :professor: :rad: and :cheers:

BTW, brake fluid systems (that means clutch, too) will absorb H2O from condensation as the very hot calipers cool down. The condensation is what causes the eventual deterioration of the braking system. Speed Bleeders make this a no-hassle maintenance opportunity. Bleed them at least every two years, and you may never need to rebuild your calipers.

[kkanuck]

I have them on my race and street motorbikes. They are fantastic. Racebike fluid is changed every two race weekends.

Considering I do need to rely on my binders for full on slowdowns from 140 to 30mph for some corners, I consider my testimony to be EXPERT. :professor: :rad: and :cheers:

BTW, brake fluid systems (that means clutch, too) will absorb H2O from condensation as the very hot calipers cool down. The condensation is what causes the eventual deterioration of the braking system. Speed Bleeders make this a no-hassle maintenance opportunity. Bleed them at least every two years, and you may never need to rebuild your calipers.


So if condensation is the culprit, then a garage kept vehicle has better fluid for longer periods I would think....

[Gulf SV]

So if condensation is the culprit, then a garage kept vehicle has better fluid for longer periods I would think....

I don't think so, but I'm usually in Vic's camp (I'm no expert. Wait, that contradicts me :thinking:). Brake components with heavy use will get extremely hot. The cooling cycle will cause some condensation. During regular use that condensation will cause the fluid to degrade, but we're talking a long time. That's why the recommended flush intervals are around two years, which is probably 30,000 miles. But, the more severe the operation, the shorter the interval should be. Like FedEx or UPS operations.

I went back and read some of the other posts, and now I wonder if the speed bleeders might be better to help get new fluid through all those pesky solenoids. These new systems are a real crapper for us DIY guys. :bash:

[Alex]

I just bought a set of these (www.speedbleeder.com) and installed them on a GMC pickup, and will now do it on the Sprinter.

The unit has a check valve, and no need for a second person!

Worked like a champ.


Has anyone else seen or heard of these by chance?

How much you paid?

[Altered Sprinter]

So if condensation is the culprit, then a garage kept vehicle has better fluid for longer periods I would think....
No 2 years 24 thousand miles is the life span of MB Brake fluids MB sheet 331.0 Dot 4 plus brake fuid.Part number A 00 989 08 07 13. ISO 4925 SAE J1703 FMVS116
Like oil the viscosity breaks down with oxidation and losses it maximum boiling point of 500F Boiling point /356F.Wet boiling point at least..
Water, air and contamination all contribute towards a "Degrading Brake Fluids" .Hence why it is recommended to flush brake components during a change over, to rid of water, and rust contamination inside of lines and reservoir etc.
A visual inspection can also show a cloud point discoloration as an indicator that the fluid is failing,and or a resistance check.
I'm almost 6 years in and never had brake issues ever.
Richard.

[kkanuck]

How much you paid?

$28.00 for a set of 4 plus $5.95 shipping.

[michaelrking]

I just bought a set for the Sprinter, and also for my e320 wagon, it was about $60 for eight of them with delivery.

[kkanuck]

I just bought a set for the Sprinter, and also for my e320 wagon, it was about $60 for eight of them with delivery.

I too bought a set for an e320 sedan as well as the Sprinter too!


So I wonder if using these speed bleeders, one would still pressurize the brake reservoir with a Motive like this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002KM5L0/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000TYJEWW&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1PJJ11DVXDB1CSNGYBSX

And not worry with pressing the brake pedal old style, or would it be better to just use the pedal?

[Alex]

Another question , in Canada Canadiantire sell this brake fluid, so can I use it for Sprinter 2004?

http://i357.photobucket.com/albums/oo16/Macgregor19/Brakefluid1of1.jpg

[maxextz]

only seen this now great stuff thanks seek.:clapping:

[sikwan]

If you're in a bind and need the fluid, it's okay for the short term and taking it easy. Otherwise you need the DOT 4 Plus which has the higher boiling point. So the answer is No on this fluid.


Another question , in Canada Canadiantire sell this brake fluid, so can I use it for Sprinter 2004?

http://i357.photobucket.com/albums/oo16/Macgregor19/Brakefluid1of1.jpg

[Alex]

Thank you It has 230C (446F), but we have not 4 plus
I am going to flush my brakes, so still thinking........

[kkanuck]

Any Mercedes or Dodge dealer in Canada would have the proper brake fluid for you!

[Altered Sprinter]

Any Mercedes or Dodge dealer in Canada would have the proper brake fluid for you! I'd agree with this but there are three of with Mercedes. under Sheet number 331.0
Part No MB A 000 989 08 07 13 is the current one for a Tin.:thumbup:
Older variants are MB 000 989 08 07 12/ 11/ 10 look for the last number for the current Brake fluid. Dot 3 Dot 4 Dot 4+Plus.....MB A 00 989 08 07 13 is backwards comparable.
MB bottles have on the back of the label, a Use by date. such as [ Expiry 01/12], make sure. 'It's not out of date'.


27720
Richard

[1hen2ducks]

So if condensation is the culprit, then a garage kept vehicle has better fluid for longer periods I would think....

Except in the US deep south where humidity levels and rainfall are astronomical. EG; Atlanta

Sorry, kidding. snik snik

[kkanuck]

I'd agree with this but there are three of with Mercedes. under Sheet number 331.0
Part No MB A 000 989 08 07 13 is the current one for a Tin.:thumbup:
Older variants are MB 000 989 08 07 12/ 11/ 10 look for the last number for the current Brake fluid. Dot 3 Dot 4 Dot 4+Plus.....MB A 00 989 08 07 13 is backwards comparable.
MB bottles have on the back of the label, a Use by date. such as [ Expiry 01/12], make sure. 'It's not out of date'.


27720
Richard



I just contacted a dealer and gave them the number in blue above, and they told me that is now an old number here stateside, and the new number is: 000 989 08 07 01 Mercedes Brake Fluid formula B 026 D Dot 4 Plus Wet boiling point 356 deg F Date on back E2114 ??

I have the full bottle in hand. They claimed this number above replaces 000 989 08 07 13.

Anyone with similar results in trying to purchase recently?

[Altered Sprinter]

I just contacted a dealer and gave them the number in blue above, and they told me that is now an old number here stateside, and the new number is: 000 989 08 07 01 Mercedes Brake Fluid formula B 026 D Dot 4 Plus Wet boiling point 356 deg F Date on back E2114 ??

I have the full bottle in hand. They claimed this number above replaces 000 989 08 07 13.

Anyone with similar results in trying to purchase recently? Quote the number from the MB sheet number DOT4 Plus 331.0 MB A
I'm not arguing but this comes under sedans AMG not sprinters.
Both boiling points 500F/ Wet boiling point 356F I'll see what I can find out.
I have in the back of my mind this number 000 989 08 07 oi is from My year 2005/6 USA Mercedes dealers.
Richard

[kkanuck]

Quote the number from the MB sheet number DOT4 Plus 331.0 MB A
I'm not arguing but this comes under sedans AMG not sprinters.
Both boiling points 500F/ Wet boiling point 356F I'll see what I can find out.
I have in the back of my mind this number 000 989 08 07 oi is from My year 2005/6 USA Mercedes dealers.
Richard

I have not used it for anything yet, and I question the "database" all the time.

All it has I quoted pretty much. It does not have a 331.0 MB or such figures, rather: Exceed the US safety standards FMVSS 571.116/DOT 3/DOT 4 and SAE specification J1703 Its in a Square bottle, not the newer wavy style.

I bought this from someone on ebay, but after calling Mercedes and verifying this is the model number they got when entering Part No MB A 000 989 08 07 13. This was a MB dealer in Atlanta.

I have a sedan to use it for if it is not for the Sprinter, but they claimed this was all they had, not 3 types to choose from, but could have been a green worker?

[Altered Sprinter]

My advise is to get the rep to show you that particular number is for a Mercedes Sprinter.
I rang MB they said N0.
Chris in the UK verified MB 000 989 08 07 13 the latter numbers-are superdeded. 10/ 11/ 12
U.S Mercedes printout. my year 2005
27727
I'll confirm this with MB Melbourne technical support.plus run a a photo of the latest labeling. a tad latter.
May be same,with just different numbers for different sedans and Vans. but it's a dam odd.way of doing business.
[ I hope I'm wrong]
Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

I have not used it for anything yet, and I question the "database" all the time.

All it has I quoted pretty much. It does not have a 331.0 MB or such figures, rather: Exceed the US safety standards FMVSS 571.116/DOT 3/DOT 4 and SAE specification J1703 Its in a Square bottle, not the newer wavy style.

I bought this from someone on ebay, but after calling Mercedes and verifying this is the model number they got when entering Part No MB A 000 989 08 07 13. This was a MB dealer in Atlanta.

I have a sedan to use it for if it is not for the Sprinter, but they claimed this was all they had, not 3 types to choose from, but could have been a green worker?
please do not use this fluid/MB down under said no not for sprinters and is out of production they have a higher rating fluid for sedans.defined by the last two digits as to my year 2009/10 these are backwards compatible to ABS sytems and Older with BFV assist
I'll get Chris to verify this as a second opinion ASAP.
Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

Arbitration Message sent.
27728

27729

27730
27731
Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Tin and NCV
MB Sheet: 331.0 DOT4 Plus A 000 989 08 07 13
This is the latest Brake fluid available.MB A000 989 08 07 01 the last digit is for one liter
MB A000 989 08 07 11. The last two digits are for 5 liters
This is a U.S BRAKE FLUID and not current for a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
The INTERNATIONAL current standards f0r last two digits 13 are for the Sprinters. previously 11/12. Any number above 13 is for the Mercedes Mog.

US NAFTA specifications as to SAE j170 FMVSS 571.116 with International standards ISO 4925 exceed US safety standards.
Mercedes Australasia No longer uses this older formulation of Mercedes first developed in 1997
Last up date was 2004 Mercedes-Benz USA.
Chris has conformed MB A000 989 08 0713.Mercedes Sprinter current.2009
The U.S spec does not show on the radar of MB WIS for Mercedes Sprinters
MB A 000 989 08 070-1
Specifications for the US Lubrication sites specify DOT4 HBH Hydraulic Brake Fluid Heavy duty. Unless someone can produce a PDF for Mercedes full MSDS Then I can not match to MB A000 989 08 07 13 specification's it's quite extensive.
DOT Fluids have progressed over the years from DOT 3 DOT 4 DoT4 Plus to DOT 5 and 5.1 the latter two are silicone-based and not to be used on a Mercedes Sprinter
If some one is willing to go to Benz and ask for a printout on the complete chemical make up ,then I will obtain the same to match up the differences if any.
Richard

[kkanuck]

please do not use this fluid/MB down under said no not for sprinters and is out of production they have a higher rating fluid for sedans.defined by the last two digits as to my year 2009/10 these are backwards compatible to ABS sytems and Older with BFV assist
I'll get Chris to verify this as a second opinion ASAP.
Richard


Hi Richard,


Thanks for you looking into this


Read the last page of this link here page 11...http://mymbonline.com/forum/uploads/liquidjune06star_593.pdf It quotes the model # I gave as a 1 liter bottle of Dot 4 plus.



I am very confused to say the least??


So I can use this fluid I have for the sedan, but not the Sprinter?


Why would the dealer parts dept not tell me they have this 13 last 2 digits in stock? They claimed they only had the one type to offer...I will call them again to see if I am given the same story if I ask a second time...


Cheers,


Tibor

[Altered Sprinter]

Hi Richard,


Thanks for you looking into this


Read the last page of this link here page 11...http://mymbonline.com/forum/uploads/liquidjune06star_593.pdf It quotes the model # I gave as a 1 liter bottle of Dot 4 plus.



I am very confused to say the least??


So I can use this fluid I have for the sedan, but not the Sprinter?


Why would the dealer parts dept not tell me they have this 13 last 2 digits in stock? They claimed they only had the one type to offer...I will call them again to see if I am given the same story if I ask a second time...


Cheers,


Tibor Hi Tibor: Note you placed this PDF..http://mymbonline.com/forum/uploads/...06star_593.pdf (http://mymbonline.com/forum/uploads/liquidjune06star_593.pdf) Pre emissions 06.for sedans as I have previously stated.
This is the 2004 PDF I can produce 01 and 1997 all identical.
27740

27741
One of the reasons Mercedes are now using Midtroincs for voltage testing
Brake fluids can be tested for a resistance of fluid tolerances with Midtroincs as a stand alone unit.
27742
recall 2006
The Brake fluid you have been quoted is likely OK but the formulation may.or not be specific to a sprinter.?
Globally the numbers you are quoting do not exist.
Brake formulations change usually designated by bevo and or mercedes-Benz
Use by dates in different geographical areas also contribute to confusion ,yet it makes sense as to climatic conditions,and or usage.
ATF Fluids changed as to the NCV G40 H/D these jumped to the last two digits 11/12 power steering has not changed. MB A000 989 03 10
Simply put I need full documentation of the NAFTA Brake Fluid being sold, as I just do not trust it.
Where a difference may come into play is SAE and API licensing Europe is required to update yearly the U.S is five years.many of the older formulations are now deleted as to today's emission and safety standards.
Factory Approved Service Products September 2004 (http://www.billsden.org/fileadmin/media/mercedes/slk/docs/man_svc_products_2005.pdf)
This PDF 2004 shows variations if you care to read it .
I believe this requires to be rectified and investigated as to why the numbering sequences in the U.S have not changed.
We need specific safety medical data sheets and Chemical composite breakdowns to analyze between the two simulate products.
Richard

[kkanuck]

Hi Tibor: Note you placed this PDF..http://mymbonline.com/forum/uploads/...06star_593.pdf (http://mymbonline.com/forum/uploads/liquidjune06star_593.pdf) Pre emissions 06.for sedans as I have previously stated.
This is the 2004 PDF I can produce 01 and 1997 all identical.
27740

27741
One of the reasons Mercedes are now using Midtroincs for voltage testing
Brake fluids can be tested for a resistance of fluid tolerances with Midtroincs as a stand alone unit.
27742
recall 2006
The Brake fluid you have been quoted is likely OK but the formulation may.or not be specific to a sprinter.?
Globally the numbers you are quoting do not exist.
Brake formulations change usually designated by bevo and or mercedes-Benz
Use by dates in different geographical areas also contribute to confusion ,yet it makes sense as to climatic conditions,and or
usage.
ATF Fluids changed as to the NCV G40 H/D these jumped to the last two digits 11/12 power steering has not changed. MB A000 989 03 10
Simply put I need full documentation of the NAFTA Brake Fluid being sold, as I just do not trust it.
Where a difference may come into play is SAE and API licensing Europe is required to update yearly the U.S is five years.many of the older formulations are now deleted as to today's emission and safety standards.
Factory Approved Service Products September 2004 (http://www.billsden.org/fileadmin/media/mercedes/slk/docs/man_svc_products_2005.pdf)
This PDF 2004 shows variations if you care to read it .
I believe this requires to be rectified and investigated as to why the numbering sequences in the U.S have not changed.
We need specific safety medical data sheets and Chemical composite breakdowns to analyze between the two simulate products.
Richard







Hi Richard,


Should I take a picture of the bottle and email it or post it for you to see?

Have you ever heard of a German Brake Fluid called TEXTAR? And if so, do they have a product that matches the Sprinter Spec?

It blows my mind it this simple task of buying brake fluid for a 2004 Sprinter in the USA has to be this complicated, and so few over here in the MB dealerships know of this sensitive issue regarding "Their" products?

Thank you for your diligence.

[Altered Sprinter]

Hi Richard,


Should I take a picture of the bottle and email it or post it for you to see?

Have you ever heard of a German Brake Fluid called TEXTAR? And if so, do they have a product that matches the Sprinter Spec?

It blows my mind it this simple task of buying brake fluid for a 2004 Sprinter in the USA has to be this complicated, and so few over here in the MB dealerships know of this sensitive issue regarding "Their" products?

Thank you for your diligence. I actually use TEXTAR brakes and rotors :thumbup:
MB DOT4 Plus is manufactured by ATE MB part number A000 989 08 07 10 My year 2005
ATE-TEXTAR BREMBO .0E MB A 000 989 08 07 10 ATE is a single piston caliper. Brembo Bosch are dual pistons. both are ABS but it's complicated to expailn.

RATINGS FOR DOT4:
Glycol based My year 2005
Dry Boiling point 500 0F
Wet Boiling point 329 oF
Castrol at the time had GTLMA DOT 4 ABS Low viscosity.

My Year 2009
DOT4 Plus
2005 MB 0E A000 989 08 07 10..through to 2009 Last two digits changed ISO Standards 4925 to 11/12/13
Product now called MBA000 989 08 07 13 0E ATE Manufacture.
Dry Boiling point 500 oF minimum
Wet Boiling point 356 oF minimum.

Full synthetic non petroleum based.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NAFTA Specs: 1997 http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov (http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/)
Little has changed in regulations since 1997 the FMVSS 571,116 Dot3 Dot 4 standards have slight variations ISO numbers are lower 4925 down as to SAE J1703. Although the NAFTA sector has the latest CAFE /BIN /EPA standards for 2011 2012 final emission accords They have not been passed in Congress.as of this date.republicans don't want change.

'If you wanted to get to the bottom of it all You need Jon to access WIS at your end Chris from the UK and I also need to go to Mercedes To pull up all of the data sheets for comparison.
Thats asking lot as to members time, and real time expedience.

Post clear pictures front and rear of the container. Maybe I can pick up on an oddity, if it exists.
Richard

[kkanuck]

I actually use TEXTAR brakes and rotors :thumbup:
MB DOT4 Plus is manufactured by ATE MB part number A000 989 08 07 10 My year 2005
ATE-TEXTAR BREMBO .0E MB A 000 989 08 07 10 ATE is a single piston caliper. Brembo Bosch are dual pistons. both are ABS but it's complicated to expailn.

RATINGS FOR DOT4:
Glycol based My year 2005
Dry Boiling point 500 0F
Wet Boiling point 329 oF
Castrol at the time had GTLMA DOT 4 ABS Low viscosity.

My Year 2009
DOT4 Plus
2005 MB 0E A000 989 08 07 10..through to 2009 Last two digits changed ISO Standards 4925 to 11/12/13
Product now called MBA000 989 08 07 13 0E ATE Manufacture.
Dry Boiling point 500 oF minimum
Wet Boiling point 356 oF minimum.

Full synthetic non petroleum based.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NAFTA Specs: 1997 http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov (http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/)
Little has changed in regulations since 1997 the FMVSS 571,116 Dot3 Dot 4 standards have slight variations ISO numbers are lower 4925 down as to SAE J1703. Although the NAFTA sector has the latest CAFE /BIN /EPA standards for 2011 2012 final emission accords They have not been passed in Congress.as of this date.republicans don't want change.

'If you wanted to get to the bottom of it all You need Jon to access WIS at your end Chris from the UK and I also need to go to Mercedes To pull up all of the data sheets for comparison.
Thats asking lot as to members time, and real time expedience.

Post clear pictures front and rear of the container. Maybe I can pick up on an oddity, if it exists.
Richard

Here ia a picture for your review....

If I am having this much trouble finding the proper juice, what has everyone else here stateside done to get around this troublesome issue of finding the right brake juice?


These photos show how this is made for MBUSA in Jersey by INTAC Corp???




Thanks Richard,


Tibor

[Altered Sprinter]

Its an old one dump it and find better sorry not DOT4 PLUS hell it even looks like an eighties label.
Whatever it says this is not a MB product proper, for a sprinter, I'll look up the specs.
MB 000989080713
MB 000989080701 \

Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

I would like to see the back of that label.
The key was B026D.Once I spied this number! Well ring my MOPAR bells for Daimler Chrysler

27756
NAFTA 2008 Daimler Chrysler.
Note two year intervals.
Looking back on ther bevo International Asia pacific side apart from labeling this older formula showed up for INDIA a NAFTA retreat.including Chrysler Australia under GM Holden distributors for Dodge products. Same two year brake change interval or 24 thousand miles.
So the number exists but not with Mercedes-Benz Global.
Now if you can not show a photo what is the manufacturing dates and expiry dates. on the back of the bottle.
Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

Forum is playing games the last picture did not previously appear.
My question is specific what are the dates on the back of the bottle they appear to be void of information. apart from stating Packaging Lot and Date.
Interesting it's manufactured by an unknown company for the U.S NAFTA stand alone.
Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

Tibor: Information has now been secured from ASSIC Australia. I'm not going to be popular on this one. But enough with the U.S crap at your end.
MB A000 989 08 07 13 is verified. for 2009/10
Current Dry boiling point 260 oC
..........Wet boiling point 180 oC

Intac Automotive Products.
DRY boiling point 180 oC
WET boiling point 180 oC
Company's profile.
1984: Started production of Brake fluid {Toll Blend}
1990: Acquired Quantum lemon plant at toll blender for long life coolants /Changed name to INTAC.
1994: Transferred brake fluid plant to Lemont.
2003: Changed name to CCI Manufacturing Corporation. 100% subsidiary of CCI
2003: applied for ISO standard.
No notification of re-licensing since 2003.
If the date of expiry Use By Date is not printed on the label then the product is invalided.
A ink stamp placed over the printed label is fraudulent as this can be done years latter if sent from a factory.with a suggested use by date.
Currently I can at this moment find no association of approval by Mercedes-Benz Germany with either companies. that links Mercedes with this labeling.
Richard

[kkanuck]

Tibor: Information has now been secured from ASSIC Australia. I'm not going to be popular on this one. But enough with the U.S crap at your end.
MB A000 989 08 07 13 is verified. for 2009/10
Current Dry boiling point 260 oC
..........Wet boiling point 180 oC

Intac Automotive Products.
DRY boiling point 180 oC
WET boiling point 180 oC
Company's profile.
1984: Started production of Brake fluid {Toll Blend}
1990: Acquired Quantum lemon plant at toll blender for long life coolants /Changed name to INTAC.
1994: Transferred brake fluid plant to Lemont.
2003: Changed name to CCI Manufacturing Corporation. 100% subsidiary of CCI
2003: applied for ISO standard.
No notification of re-licensing since 2003.
If the date of expiry Use By Date is not printed on the label then the product is invalided.
A ink stamp placed over the printed label is fraudulent as this can be done years latter if sent from a factory.with a suggested use by date.
Currently I can at this moment find no association of approval by Mercedes-Benz Germany with either companies. that links Mercedes with this labeling.
Richard






Thanks Richard,


Very interesting....


So I guess I cannot use this for either vehicle?


How long has Dot 4 plus been around?


I will try calling other dealers then as the only model for brake fluid they gave me when I called them quoting your model number was that this part number on my bottle above superseded the model number you gave me, granted they may have a different shape of bottle,


Thanks for your investigative work. MBUSA must have made this for themselves, I am at a lost for words. I cannot see a knock off brake fluid being a viable business for someone, but who knows?

I will let you know what other dealers tell me. I am shocked no one else has piped up on their experience finding the real brake fluid meeting current spec with MB here in the US.


Again, Thank you sir,



Tibor

[kkanuck]

If you google: Part No MB A 000 989 08 07 13,

you will only find sites in Europe, Down Under, Asia, etc with pages that shows this part number....why would there not be a single site in US, Canada, if this was the same number used my MBUSA in NAFTA region...just curious your thoughts on this?



Regarding the Textar, Could the Textar Pro Brake Fluid LV be used on the Sprinter in your opinion? I found someone here in the US carrying it.



http://www.textarpro.com/images/stories/downloads/media/tx_brake_fluid_en.pdf

[kkanuck]

To add to the confusion, here is a link to a guy http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270657331612&ssPageName=ADME:X:eRTM:MOTORS:1123#ht_500wt_1182 selling it in ebay as well, different from who I did my purchase from, and I just asked him about he age, and expiry date on the back, etc, and he "claimed" it came to him from MB last week, directly.

I'm wondering if MBUSA is the culprit here, flogging old bottles to the industry here in the US, or someone has Pinocchio syndrome, one of the two?

[Altered Sprinter]

Tibor: It's U.S NAFTA Local content. local employment. with a big If =Unregulated and or not up to par as to full transparent International standards.
By law in the real-world ! If a product does not have a printed use by date placed by a manufacture at time of production Bang big fines . Printing as I have have said after a product has been manufactured with an ink stamp placed after the fact,is not acceptable,or legal.
The consumer has no protection or recall.
Any bottle with incorrect printing is subject to recall, stocks are with drawn and sent back to the manufacture, for immediate disposal. [Marked not for public sale.]
Off the cuff, the Obama government has tired to place consumer protection at your end for 2011/12 onwards it has not passed as of yet.
Give me until to night and I will endeavor to trace CCI and or INTAC as an approved Mercedes-Benz Manufacture for distribution of fluids,for the N/A sector.
I'll reiterate by fact: MB A000 989 08 07 13 is the current fluid. [It has not been superseded. by the number you have given: "By Mercedes-Benz Germany".]
TEXTAR if it has the use by date Plus DOT4+with either BP 500F minimum and WBP 356F minimum /BP 260C minimum.WBP 180C then the product is in range.
I could have that bottle you have tested independently with the CSRIO Tasmania with Mercedes-approval to see if the product is legitimate.? Want to send it down.:popcorn: PS DOT4 has been around since the sixties but in mineral format used by high performance racing teams.Non ABS low viscosity. It has a well written documentation.
Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

To add to the confusion, here is a link to a guy http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270657331612&ssPageName=ADME:X:eRTM:MOTORS:1123#ht_500wt_1182 selling it in ebay as well, different from who I did my purchase from, and I just asked him about he age, and expiry date on the back, etc, and he "claimed" it came to him from MB last week, directly.

I'm wondering if MBUSA is the culprit here, flogging old bottles to the industry here in the US, or someone has Pinocchio syndrome, one of the two?
Tibor: At the moment I am not looking at the blame game as to confusion reigns, rather backing up the documented facts.so factual information can be given rather than being subjected to speculative hearsay.
ATE brake fluid CLICK HERE (http://www.stoptech.com/tech_info/wp_brakefluidcomparison.shtml)
Richard

[kkanuck]

Tibor: It's U.S NAFTA Local content. local employment. with a big If =Unregulated and or not up to par as to full transparent International standards.
By law in the real-world ! If a product does not have a printed use by date placed by a manufacture at time of production Bang big fines . Printing as I have have said after a product has been manufactured with an ink stamp placed after the fact,is not acceptable,or legal.
The consumer has no protection or recall.
Any bottle with incorrect printing is subject to recall, stocks are with drawn and sent back to the manufacture, for immediate disposal. [Marked not for public sale.]
Off the cuff, the Obama government has tired to place consumer protection at your end for 2011/12 onwards it has not passed as of yet.
Give me until to night and I will endeavor to trace CCI and or INTAC as an approved Mercedes-Benz Manufacture for distribution of fluids,for the N/A sector.
I'll reiterate by fact: MB A000 989 08 07 13 is the current fluid. [It has not been superseded. by the number you have given: "By Mercedes-Benz Germany".]
TEXTAR if it has the use by date Plus DOT4+with either BP 500F minimum and WBP 356F minimum /BP 260C minimum.WBP 180C then the product is in range.
I could have that bottle you have tested independently with the CSRIO Tasmania with Mercedes-approval to see if the product is legitimate.? Want to send it down.:popcorn: PS DOT4 has been around since the sixties but in mineral format used by high performance racing teams.Non ABS low viscosity. It has a well written documentation.
Richard

I asked this guy from ebay (the link I showed you) what it stated on the back of the bottle by the expiry date printing, etc, and he came back also, like my bottle, no expiry date, just the following: lot and date AR100519

Not sure what any of this means, but no expiry date I will give you seems fishy! Why is it on the label if they do not fill it in at manufacture? And seeing as this is made for MBUSA out of Jersey, I would think the onus is on them no?

[kkanuck]

Tibor: At the moment I am not looking at the blame game as to confusion reigns, rather backing up the documented facts.so factual information can be given rather than being subjected to speculative hearsay.
ATE brake fluid CLICK HERE (http://www.stoptech.com/tech_info/wp_brakefluidcomparison.shtml)
Richard

Out of this ATE list you submitted, there are many in the list that mean the wet and dry boiling points, but low viscosity is a different angle as well that must be adhered to correct? I read that the ATE Blue, or the Gold color, are not LV fluids, is that not correct? I also read that it stains the heck out of the reservoir, and makes it hard to read levels through the blue color.

[Altered Sprinter]

I asked this guy from ebay (the link I showed you) what it stated on the back of the bottle by the expiry date printing, etc, and he came back also, like my bottle, no expiry date, just the following: lot and date AR100519

Not sure what any of this means, but no expiry date I will give you seems fishy! Why is it on the label if they do not fill it in at manufacture? And seeing as this is made for MBUSA out of Jersey, I would think the onus is on them no?
Yes But there is no legal requirement as to a nationalized 50 state compulsory standards.

Out of this ATE list you submitted, there are many in the list that mean the wet and dry boiling points, but low viscosity is a different angle as well that must be adhered to correct? I read that the ATE Blue, or the Gold color, are not LV fluids, is that not correct? I also read that it stains the heck out of the reservoir, and makes it hard to read levels through the blue color.
Yellow Light.27781

27782 I'm off to MB to obtain both MDSS and the flow chart for the MB Brake fluid . If I can find it under WIS.
Richard

[Altered Sprinter]

Yes But there is no legal requirement as to a nationalized 50 state compulsory standards.


Yellow Light.27781

27782 I'm off to MB to obtain both MDSS and the flow chart for the MB Brake fluid . If I can find it under WIS.
RichardCurrently MB Fluids DOT 4 PLUS proper, are matching DOT 5 silica's based Boiling points.

How sweet are your brakes running lately! squeaks and squawks, low pedal pressure vibrations etc.

27784
Richard

[kkanuck]

My Brakes are actually just fine, except for that grinding noise once in a very blue moon....but with all the talk, I figure I may as well change it as it has never been performed as of yet.

I have to say, this has become quite complicated....a simple brake fluid exchange gone array.

I have found a woman here finally stateside over the internet that can sell me the "exact" fluid by MB with the last 2 digits 13, like the part number you were so kind to offer.

She also has Textar Pro which is LV their highest grade of Dot 4 plus, and I am having her examine the specs, as it is half the price of the MB fluid.

I think I will go Textar unless the MB is fluid from the EU. I do not trust MBUSA with parts like this after this debacle.

[Altered Sprinter]

My Brakes are actually just fine, except for that grinding noise once in a very blue moon....but with all the talk, I figure I may as well change it as it has never been performed as of yet.

I have to say, this has become quite complicated....a simple brake fluid exchange gone array.

I have found a woman here finally stateside over the internet that can sell me the "exact" fluid by MB with the last 2 digits 13, like the part number you were so kind to offer.

She also has Textar Pro which is LV their highest grade of Dot 4 plus, and I am having her examine the specs, as it is half the price of the MB fluid.

I think I will go Textar unless the MB is fluid from the EU. I do not trust MBUSA with parts like this after this debacle.
Don't think any one should either.
Mb always has a higher retail value.No competition between dealerships, OE are normally 40% cheaper if you can find them. like oil... Markup's on pricing can be expensive ,best to find a distributor and you save buying direct.[Freight is an issue though.]
Mobil one super syn 0W-40 retails at 19 to 22 dollars Liter I buy direct from the Mobil at self point refinery in Hobart and the price! you guessed it 10 dollars for litre 5 litres are cheaper 20 liter drum 6 dollars plus tax per liter.. Glad you sorted this one ut .
Cheers Richard

[cahaak]

Just some quick info on the brake fluid thing. Instead of looking for DOT 4 plus - which is really not an official designation, what you really want to use is DOT 5.1. This fluid is backward compatible with DOT 3 and 4 (and 4+)and has the boiling properties of the DOT 5 fluid. The DOT 5 fluid is silicone based and not compatible with anything else.

So, do a google search for DOT 5.1. You will find several different fluids available. You can get these via Amazon. The main difference in moving up to the 5.1 fluid is that it includes more borate esters in the formula and this gives the fluid a higher boiling point, up to the properties on the silicone DOT 5 in some cases.

Why they ended up giving it the DOT 5.1 designation instead of something like 4.1 seems to make no sense. It is much more similar to a DOT 4 fluid than a DOT 5.

Chris

[Altered Sprinter]

Mercedes-Benz proper DOT4 PLUS matches as I have previously stated DOT 5.1 non silica based.
BP 500F WBP 375F minimum.
As for the JUNK That was being stated kknauck: Read this link and you will know why alarms bells rang up with me.
INTAC has had issues and recalls since 1997
The container Golden Eagle.
Not approved by Mercedes-Benz Germany.
Motor vehicle safety standards; exemption petitions, etc.: Intac Automotive Products, Inc., - Federal Register - February 18, 2000 - Id 23290719 - vLex (http://regulations.vlex.com/vid/motor-vehicle-exemption-intac-automotive-23290719?ix_resultado=2.0&query%5Bbuscable_id%5D=US&query%5Bbuscable_type%5D=Pais&query%5Btextolibre%5D=Intac+brake+fluid)
This may be the reason Dodge recalled fluids back in 2006

49 CFR 571.116 - Standard No. 116; Motor vehicle brake fluids. - Code of Federal Regulations - Title 49: Transportation - Subpart B: Federal motor vehicle safety standards - vLex (http://cfr.vlex.com/vid/571-116-standard-vehicle-brake-fluids-19948550)
Richard
27808
27809
27810
27811
27812

[kkanuck]

That is pretty wild.

Leave it to me to find these treasures in the haystack.....


The guy I bought 3 liters from luckily has agreed to take them back!!!


Thanks Richard for shedding light on the Americano (No standards enforcement.... as far as consumer protection is concerned) Brake Fluid.


I would think MBUSA would like to know their rejected goods are being flogged to unsuspecting consumers, or Maybe not?


Much obliged!


I am going to buy some Textar Dot 4 Pro, or Dot 5.1 as I have now learned about.


Tibor

[Altered Sprinter]

DOT blue and yellow are the same values at the ones I was looking at. Blue is hard to see containment the yellow not so ,
But brands vary :bash:
Wait to the new year and I'll show how viscosity on brake fluid breaks down with moisture via atmospheric conditions. including a fluid test. Hopefully this one will scare the hell out of some of you chappies,that think fluids last forever and a day.
Brake drums went out decades ago I have rotors and power brakes since 1955 and that was a mineral DOT 3.
Richard

[kkanuck]

I just bought a set for the Sprinter, and also for my e320 wagon, it was about $60 for eight of them with delivery.

Do you have the SBC Brake System on the E320 Wagon?


If so, any worries bleeding the SBC as opposed to the Sprinter using the Speed Bleeders?


So a catch bottle for old fluid with a hose leading from the Speed bleeder, and pumping at the pedal while maintaining new fluid in the reservoir is all it took? I have a DAD for the Sprinter but have heard many are having issues agitating the ABS valves with it, so maybe the old braking on gravel method may have to do....


Cheers,

[Thanasis]

I just had a similar experience too with the MB service independent shop in Marin County ( north of San Francisco). When I called yesterday to make an appointment, I was asked why I wanted to have the break fluid flushed. I said I have never had the fluid changed since I bought my Sprinter new in 2006. He asked if I make heavy use of the vehicle, which I am not ( less that 30k miles on the odometer, lightly loaded). He said that it is not necessary to change the fluid, despite what the Owner's manual says. Why would he want to turn down the business? BTW, this is also a very well reputed shop.
T.


I just spoke with an Independent reputable MB Service shop near me, and the owner thought I was nuts to change Brake Fluid every 2 years. If I lived in a cold climate, it would be different, and that is where moisture can get into the brake lines I was told. But here in Atlanta where i live, he told me it was a waste, that the fluid is synthetic nowadays, and this dot4+ does not break down like older fluids did.


What are some other's thoughts on this? I also have an 06 MB eclass and same thing, only 20K miles on it, should I be changing this fluid, or is it unnecessary based on my climactic conditions?


Cheers

[jdcaples]

I just had a similar experience too with the MB service independent shop in Marin County ( north of San Francisco). When I called yesterday to make an appointment, I was asked why I wanted to have the break fluid flushed. I said I have never had the fluid changed since I bought my Sprinter new in 2006. He asked if I make heavy use of the vehicle, which I am not ( less that 30k miles on the odometer, lightly loaded). He said that it is not necessary to change the fluid, despite what the Owner's manual says. Why would he want to turn down the business? BTW, this is also a very well reputed shop.
T.

There are clearly two camps on the forum.

The first camp (including your humble author) follows this line of thought

http://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6121

The other camp never did it on their older vehicles, their modern vehicles and - even though factory scan tools contain a menu-driven software routine that pokes the ABS controller and forces the flushing of all valves in the ABS - this nay-sayer camp sees no reason for doing it on their Sprinters.

Why would your well-reputed dealership turn down business? Recently, a forum member looked on Sprinter Work Shop Information System (http://www.sprintertekinfo.com) (Sprinter WIS) and found no mention of using a scan tool as part of the routine brake maint.

I have no explanation for the removal of that info and the continued existence of the scan tool menu options for brake fluid flushing other than human error.

-Jon