Silicon fluid for brakes and clutch???

[QuattroFever]

Hi all,

Is it ok to use silicon fluid instead of DOT 4 in an S2?

I can't see a problem with it but I've been told a horror story about people using silicon fluid and then a month or two later seals in the calipers and all over the place started to break down and leak.

It makes no logical sense to me at all as silicon is seal friendly and shouldn't damage anything.

Anyone had any experience??

[PeteRR]

I really wouldn't. I've heard of instances of seal failure due to the silicon fluid causing them to swell. Also, the lubricating properties aren't as good as a decent Dot 4 or 5.1 fluid. I'm sure it wouldn't get on with the ABS either (the pump particulary). And it can also possibly lead to a 'spongy' feeling brake pedal.

Although I do actually use Automec silicon fluid in the familys old Rover, and have done for quite a few years now. Though all the seals in that were completely replaced before the silicon fluid was added, and there are is of course no ABS etc.

But in a more modern car like the S2 I would tend to use something like Castrol Response or ATE Racing Blue brake fluid.

[GT500]

not had seal issues, lots of my cutomers like the stuff(classic car owners), dosen't hert paint if any spills, don't have to change it ever again, BUT and its a big BUT!
Its crap when pushed hard on a high performance car. It boils very easily.
If you have shunt and the fluid is spilt from reservoir and contacts hot exhaust,turbo. It is allmost impossible to put out the ensuing fire.
I would not use it ever. I think its banned in motorsport.

[dan_b]

No, no and No. Avoid silicone fluids like the plague in your S2.
Get yourself a proper high performance DOT4 like ATE Super.

[QuattroFever]

Wow, I don't think i'll be going down that route.

Cheers lads!

[newsh]

Harley Davidsons only!

[Corey]

A very big no from this corner also. Keep it mineral, something like a Motul RF600 is preffered.