Brake Fluid = ATF?

[Doug G.]

Hi all,

I just recieved an order from CPS. They had a small bottle of what was calld "Brake Fluid" on-line. When it arrived it turns out it is Dexron III automatic transmission fluid - the invoice says "brake fluid - ATF." The color is right, but is this the right stuff for a CTLS?

[Tom Baker]

While it might work it is not what the MM calls for. It calls for Aeroshell fluid 41 or MIL-H-5606.

[Doug G.]

Yeah, I was going to purchase the Aeroshell from Aircraft Spruce, but was putting in an order with CPS. I can't believe they would repackage Dexron and claim it is brake fluid. Not worth sending back - I guess orders from them have to be phone orders.

[Doug G.]

Yeah, so who ever heard of ATF brake fluid?? I would never use it in a car, why would I use it in my plane? Sparse descriptions on their site.

[Doug G.]

It could have been Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms as far as I was concerned!

[Runtoeat]

I wouldn't use anything other than 5606.

[Doug G.]

Thanks Roger for the research. Maybe I will put it on the shelf for an emergency. I'll use the kind called for in the manual.

[California Power Systems]

CPS supplies ATF hydraulic fluid that is produced by Hegar for Hegar, Black Max and other brake systems requiring ATF fluid. CPS does not repackage Dexco fluids.

 

CPS Customer Service

[Doug G.]

I'll have to take a picture of the bottle next time I get to the hanger. It says Dexron III on a non-corporate label on a cheap plastic bottle. I think it is time for you to check out the warehouse and see what you are actually shipping.

[Doug G.]

This is for CPS customer service--

I have attached a picture of the bottle of "brake fluid" you sent to me. It is still in the sealed bag and, if you wish I can post the bag label also. As you can see it is clearly labeled Dexron III, but given what you are telling me I am not exactly sure what is in the bottle since you "don't repackage" such stuff.

 

I did not appreciate your intimating that I was either lieing or having delusions. I would apreciate an apology and an explanation of how the Dexron label got on the bottle.

 

--Just saying it don't make it so.

 

If this is not clear enough I can send you the unreduced file directly if you give me an address.

[Doug G.]

Thanks Roger, I had no problem until they made that statement. I just figured I ordered the wrong stuff.

[California Power Systems]

Thanks to Doug for pointing out that the brake fluid that CPS carries is indeed Dexron III. We do get this fluid from Hegar Products and apparently Hegar pours it down into these smaller bottles. It is our understanding that Dexron III is equivalent to standard automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Sorry for any confusion, and if there are any further concerns about this fluid please let us know.

 

CPS Customer Service Dept.

[Doug G.]

I appreciate the acknowlegement. CPS is back on the good guys list.

[FastEddieB]

CPS,

 

Way to "man up" and take responsibility.

 

It is our understanding that Dexron III is equivalent to standard automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

 

Good to know.

 

But it would behoove owners to make sure that substituting it for what's called for in their AMM is authorized.

[cdarza]

What is the material and specs for the brake lining ?   Mine are starting to get brittle and actually had them burst (and lost brake during a 5000rpm run up)  -  Reminder to be careful and reach for the ignition off quickly ---   

i measured mine and it looks like 4mm - does that sound correct - as CPS has brake line that is 1/8OD

2006 Original Brake

Thanks

[cdarza]

The white plastic brake line is 6mm OD x 4mm

High

Bursting

Pressure 1/4 .150 2500 05-04349

 

Would this be the one i am looking for ?    

[Tom Baker]

I think if it was me I would think about switching to the later style hose with the banjo fittings, at least on the pressure side.

[cdarza]

From Flight Design re Brake Line:    The correct part number is C9993190H