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Topping Off Brake Fluid C70 1999


I need to add a little brake fluid to my
brake/clutch reservoir and I would like to
confirm a few things before I do:

I purchased a small can of Castrol GTLMA.
The manual calls for DOT 4+ .
[ the castrol says it exceeds DOT 3 and DOT 4 specs,
good for all ABS and Hydr clutches. ]
Is the Castrol fine to top off with?

When I'm ready to add the fluid is there any concern
when unscrewing the reservior top. I see there is
electronics attached to it. I will top off with
engine off. Any concerns with this?

Thanks,

RD 99' c70 cpe hpt man








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    Topping Off Brake Fluid C70 1999

    I had a hard time finding anything called Dot 4+ in auto
    stores and just ended up using brake fluid purchased at the
    dealer. But, I think the Castrol should be fine.

    You might want to check brake pad wear. If the fluid is
    low enough to set a light on the dash the pads may be
    near minimum size (the fluid level drops a bit as pads
    wear).

    I would also clean the lid and area around it with a
    cloth just to help keep dirt out of the system.

    Volvo recommends brake fluid be completly flushed every
    2 years or so. If that has not been done it is something
    to consider. The reason is the brake fluid absorbs moisture
    (you want it to do this because you don't want pockets of
    moisture in the line). The fluid also has additives for
    corrosion protection which, over time, loose effectivness
    (and you don't want expensive ABS and brake parts corroding).
    I have the fluid flushed when I replace pads (which is around
    every 30K but with a clutch your pads probably last longer since
    I bet you brake less).








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    Topping Off Brake Fluid C70 1999

    Castrol/Girling are Europes largest manufacturer of Oils and fluids, the one you have chosen is perfect for what you want, DOT 4. Be very careful to keep the container tightly sealed at all times, Brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs water) and containers must be kept air tight. The electronics you see in the cap are a part of the fluid level indicators and will not come to any harm.
    If your system is losing fluid it might be a good idea to have it checked by your Volvo shop, you should certainly not have to add more than a teaspoon or so as part of routine maintenance.
    John Scales (1966 850R)








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      Topping Off Brake Fluid C70 1999


      Thanks Gents!

      Yes I only need to add a little and thanks Ray,
      I was wondering why I was getting good longevity
      out of my front brake pads. [ manual trans. ]

      My brother already went through 2 sets of front
      brake pads on his 2000 S70.

      Thanks,

      RD







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