Brakes and Traction Control: Service and Repair

The components of the hydraulic braking system must be cleaned in clean brake fluid or denatured alcohol which does not contain benzene (benzoyl).
Although brake fluid is an excellent cleaning agent, it is also expensive. Denatured alcohol is, therefore, the most suitable cleaning agent.

Petrol, naphta, trichloroethylene or alcohol containing benzene must not be used for cleaning purposes since the slightest trace of mineral oil in the system will attack the rubber seals and cause them to swell.

It is extremely important that no cleaning agent remains in the system when filling with brake fluid. Traces of substances such as alcohol will lower the boiling point of the fluid, causing vaporization and impairing operation.

After cleaning, the components should be wetted with brake fluid and assembled. The complete system should then be filled with fluid.