Date:         Thu, 9 Jan 1997 09:28:12 PDT
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         VWNUT@smus.bc.ca
Subject:      Re: Brake Fluid ??

> The Bently Mannual states that only Dot 4 brake fluid be applied to 
> Vanagons.  Does anyone know the difference between Dot 3 & Dot 4.  I have a 
> ton of Dot 3, can I use it or is that stupid.
Only difference is temperature rating. I used DOT 3 by mistake on my 
Jetta, didn't notice until I got MAJOR brake fade coming down a long 
steep hill onto an offramp. Given the work Vanagon brakes do, I'd 
find the best DOT4 you can - Castrol LMA is said to be good.

> Also, I seem to be losing brake fluid, filled it 1.5 months back and now it 
> need more.  Anyone have any suggestions?  Could it be the lines or is it 
> more likely the brake assembly somewhere?
In every VW I've had, this had been a result of a weeping brake drum 
slave cylinder. Peel back the rubber boot - if it's wet, replace it 
before it gets worse. Also check the clutch slave.

Shawn Wright (VWnut@smus.bc.ca)
'88 Westy (336k)
'85 Jetta TD (358k)
'69 Wife
'97 1st child (! :)