5 Ton brake fluid change, Dot 3 to Dot 5 critique

[Neophyte]

I made the mother of all mistakes, and assumed my M817 was filled with Dot 5...it wasn't. So I opened the TM for switching from Dot 3 to Dot 5 (TB 43-0002-87) and followed the steps. As there is nothing more critical in our trucks with a single circuit brake system, I'm asking for any critique of how I did this.

1. Built the Steel Soldier power bleeder (I think Recovery 4x4 has 1st credit on this great set up)



2. Screwed a 1/8" NPT pipe into the Master cylinder vent, attached to the Steel Soldier power bleeder, primed





3. Bled the Dot 3 out to DOT 5 in the following steps: Master Cylinder, air pack, back right cylinder, back left cylinder, inner right, inner left, front right, front left.



I used a 1/4" I.D. clear tube connected to the bleed valve nipples and noticed a color change relatively quickly. I let the Dot 5 run out until only trace amounts of Dot 3 were visible (closed the valve and opened to check the line a few times on each cylinder). I don't think there is any way using TB 43-0002-87 to get all of the Dot 3 out. I ended up using almost a full gallon of Dot 5 while doing the change over.

Is there any risk of "clotting" with residual Dot 3 in the system? Also, does it make sense to switch out the rubber brake lines to braided steel?

Thank you

Neophyte (and that I am)

 

[Squirt-Truck]

You should be just fine. It has been discussed that a little DOT3 in the system will help keep the moisture from puddling and will keep the seals soft and full size.
The braid reinforced lines will add a little stiffness to the pedal but will not make much difference in the operation of the brakes.

 

[Recovry4x4]

I would like to add that after driving the truck a few times and a few heat and cool cycles, do another cursory bleed. You don't need to run a jug through but a second bleed always helps. DOT 5 can entrain air so I always follow up with a second short bleed. Squirt-Truck is spot on and if anyone here understands brake theory and application, he certainly does.

 

[Neophyte]

Thank you gents! Anything to do with brakes makes me slow down, double check......then check again. I've even thought about spending the $$$ to switch to air brakes on the M817 (would be a waste vs. going to an M929, but I do love this truck).