What kind of oil should be applied to the brake pump piston?
4 Answers
Brake pump pistons should be lubricated with brake fluid. Applying other types of oil may contaminate the brake fluid and affect the braking system. Brake fluid replacement cycle: Generally, it is recommended to replace brake fluid every 2 years, but this interval may vary depending on usage conditions. Different vehicle brands have different official maintenance schedules for brake fluid replacement, which depends on the brake fluid brand and vehicle model. Brake fluid has certain corrosive properties and strong water absorption. Many repair shops now have specialized tools to test the water content in brake fluid, allowing for an inspection to determine if replacement is needed. It's crucial to replace brake fluid regularly according to the maintenance schedule, preferably following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance cycle. Function of brake fluid: Brake fluid, also known as automotive brake fluid. Early vehicles used mechanical drum brakes. With the development of hydraulic technology, safe and reliable hydraulic braking systems have been widely adopted in automobiles. Automotive brake fluid is the liquid used in hydraulic braking systems. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the force is transmitted by the master cylinder piston through the brake fluid to the wheel cylinders at each wheel, causing the friction pads to expand and stop the vehicle. When braking stops, return springs pull the friction pads back to their original positions. Brake fluid serves as the force transmission medium throughout this process. In the automotive braking system, brake fluid acts as the transmission medium. When the driver presses the brake pedal, with the assistance of the vacuum booster, it pushes the master cylinder, which in turn pushes the brake fluid, transmitting the force through the brake fluid to the wheel cylinders at all four wheels. The wheel cylinders then push the brake pads, which squeeze the brake discs to generate braking force.
A few days ago when I was working on the brakes, I almost made a big mistake. A friend reminded me that brake caliper pistons require specialized high-temperature silicone-based lubricant like Permatex. Ordinary engine oil or WD-40 must never be used as they can corrode rubber seals, causing swelling and failure. I've personally witnessed brake failure accidents - how dangerous! It's best to purchase dedicated brake grease and thoroughly clean components before application to prevent dust contamination. Apply just a thin layer on pistons and sliding points, avoiding excess. When DIYing, safety comes first - this stuff is heat-resistant and non-volatile, ensuring smooth movement. Regular brake system maintenance with attention to these details can prevent trouble.
I've always been passionate about car modifications, and I pay special attention to the treatment of brake caliper pistons. It's essential to use silicone-based lubricants, and products like CRC on the market are perfect. Why specialized? During braking, temperatures skyrocket, causing ordinary grease to oxidize and break down, damaging rubber seals and posing a risk of leaks. I've experimented with applying inferior grease, and the pistons would stick and fail to return properly, but switching to proper silicone grease made them much smoother. The operation guide is: after cleaning the guide pins and pistons, apply an appropriate amount of silicone grease to avoid excessive buildup. When discussing brake maintenance, don't underestimate this step; it enhances responsiveness and reduces noise. Remember to store the silicone grease away from light and moisture to ensure efficient maintenance every time.
Having worked in auto repair for many years, it's essential to apply high-temperature silicone-based lubricant to brake caliper pistons. Regular grease can cause seal degradation, potentially leading to leaks and failure. I've personally dealt with accident vehicles that had issues due to incorrect lubricant use. The correct procedure is to clean the surface, apply a thin layer of specialized silicone grease to promote sliding. Never use substitutes - safety is paramount. When doing it yourself, consulting a professional shop is advisable, as brakes are literally a matter of life and death.
