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MG MGA - Testing brake fluid with a digital multi meter

What do you guys (and gals) think of the method of testing brake fluid water content using a digital multi meter. Any reading greater than 0.3 volts indicates it should be replaced.
http://workshop.search-autoparts.com/_Tech-Tip-Testing-Brake-Fluid-With-Your-DMM/blog/209152/31710.html

http://www.supercheapautotv.com.au/public/default.aspx?id=wj33brHswxA

Mike
Mike Ellsmore

Interesting, though it seems to me that he is quibbling about fluid that is already visually bad, and/or older than the recommended 30 months. I'd be curious to do this testing on GTLMA to see what the results are. My experience is that it does not get dark - the sign of moisture absorption - anywhere near as quickly as other fluids. But, that may or may not alter the outcome; I suspect it would. While the article is a little scattered, all the bad effects seem to be ultimately related to moisture. And, I think his finishing conjecture re the voltaic cell effect must be true, as there is no other source of the measured voltage.
There is no info here re other system materials, like SS or Cunifer lines, or silicone fluids.

FRM
FR Millmore

For us Aussies GTLMA is
http://www.castrol.com/castrol/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9012213&contentId=7024043
Mike
Mike Ellsmore

Interesting and certainly a cheap solution, provided it gives consistent results for different types of brake fluid, brake line materials, etc. I think I will stick to my gunson 77002 brake fluid tester. For about £20 it seems to work well on various cars - green result is OK (less than 1.5% water), amber - marginal, red - replace (above 3% water).
Bruce
Bruce Mayo

Having experienced brake failure once, while driving a BMW 2002 automatic and descending a mountain road, I'm a firm believer in regular changing of the fluid.

Whilst I understand (and like) the principle of measuring possible deterioration of the fluid with a multi-meter, I think in reality on an MGA with its single pipe system its almost as easy to change the fluid.
John Bray

This thread was discussed on 16/07/2011

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