When we think about the vehicles we've loved over the years, a host of memories might pop into our heads. Speed, style, cruising, drive-ins, exploring trails, drag racing and a host of other memories compete for attention.
I'm willing to bet, though, that brakes were not part of most of those reflections. Yet, brakes are as essential as the diesel engine that rumbles under the hood. When you want to go, you gotta know how to stop as well.
This week Champion Brands announced a DOT 5 brake fluid specifically designed for classic antique and collector diesel vehicles. Here's the story I saw.
Champion DOT 5 Brake Fluid is Purpose-Built for Classic, Antique and Collector Diesel Vehicles
Champion, a globally recognized industry leader in specialty products for over 65 years, has recently introduced Champion DOT 5 Silicone-Based Brake Fluid.
The new fluid is a polysiloxane-based fluid designed for use in non-ABS hydraulic braking applications. It was developed to be used in older gas and diesel vehicles where moisture will be prevalent and unavoidable due to lack of use.
Brakes run on a hydraulic system that requires fluid to make them work. Placing your foot on the brake pedal transfers pressure through the brake fluid to the brake calipers which then apply pressure to the brake pads and rotors or the brake shoes and drums.
This process creates friction that stops the vehicle and, in some applications, creates heat. Different brake fluids react to heat in different ways, which is why there are different types of DOT brake fluids available. Dot 5 has a very high boiling point and has more compressibility than most glycol ether-based fluids.
Champion DOT 5 Brake Fluid (Part #4055) is a silicone-based high-temp brake fluid used primarily in applications like gas or diesel classic, antique and collector vehicles which are primarily kept in storage or used only occasionally. It will not blister, peel, or harm painted surfaces and acts as a weather barrier for your brake system, preventing rust.
Unlike glycol-based fluids, Champion's silicone-based brake fluid has a much more consistent viscosity profile, thereby providing excellent lubrication of brake system components -- leading to more consistent brake feel and longer component life. A Champion DOT 5-filled brake system will last longer and works well in cold temperatures.
Do not use Champion DOT 5 Brake Fluid in ABS-equipped braking systems. When DOT 5 brake fluid is used in an ABD system it will become foamy and unreliable. This is a result of the pulse high-pressure action that ABS brake systems exert on air bubbles, greatly reducing the reliability of the brake fluid.
There are some other systems that may not work with silicone brake fluids because of the chemical composition of silicone rubber external components, such as caliper piston boots. DOT 5 brake fluid could break these down.
Champion DOT 5 Brake Fluid does not mix with DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5.1 or racing brake fluids.
Champion DOT 5 Brake Fluid Properties
Purple liquid
Dry boiling point: 530 degrees
Viscosity: 900cSt @ -40°F
Conforms to FMVSS 116 (DOT 5) and MIL-PRF-46176B
Contains Polydimethylsiloxane, Tribultylphosphate and Dioctyl-Sebacate
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