1971 XKE 4.2 Series II
2R14220
I have been unable to locate "Castrol/Girling Crimson Clutch/Brake Fluid", I've been told that SAE J1703A spec. is now simply called DOT 3. Can I just use DOT 3 brake fluid in the brake and clutch reservoirs? Can I simply ADD DOT 3 fluid to the fluid that is already in the reservoirs. The fluid presently in the reserviors looks rather clear, like mineral oil.
I'm removing the "dealer installed" air conditioning. Is there any advantage or disadvantge to removing the compressor and the condensing coil? It would seem to me that removing the condensing coil would increase air flow to the radiator.
Submitted by NE52-32043 on Fri, 01/09/2004 - 11:15
Jeff,
I use Castrol LMA brake fluid in both of my cars. I works fine. I also use it as the clutch fluid in my Ser. II car. It was suggested to me that you use the same fluid in both brake and clutch -- that way you can't make a mistake when topping up. You should be able to find Castrol LMA in just about any auto parts store.
Bleeding the brakes is not hard (well, the rears on the Ser. II are no piece of cake, but it's not that bad a job). So I'd suggest just draining the system and putting in fresh LMA. If you're not sure if the brake system has been bled in the last 2 years, do it. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere and you don't want those brakes fading on you when you really need them most.
As far as the AC goes, if you are removing it entirely, take both the condensor and compressor out. The condensor blocks air flow to the radiator. The compressor is very heavy, so you'll save some weight and open up the engine compartment a bit while you're at it. Save the components and brackets (especially the idler pully), as they are hard to find, in case you ever want to put it back.
Steve Weinstein, JTC-NJ
'72 E-type 2+2
'70 XKE FHC