Hello

From what I've been reading, the solo-bleeders leak less than the speed-bleeders. I also hear that the correct size is M10x1.25 (~$11 each online). I didn't see them on Ricks2k site anymore.

I'm planning on a dozen auto-x this year and maybe 3-4 HPDE at tracks. I have Carbotech AX6 pads and Mich Pilot Sport Cups. I know that they're all compromise options, but until I get a trailer / more free time, I'm going with a mildly upgraded tire / brake setup.

I've been reading up on the FAQs and plan on changing pads / wheels from OEM / OEM to the AX6 / MPSCs in my garage in between events.

My brake fluid is old and dirty.

So my question is:
For this kind of use, is changing the fluid 2-3 times per year sufficient? DOT 4. It'd be mainly just me and the jack stands, but I could enlist my wife to pump the brake pedal if additional help was needed.

Any advice on a convenient setup that limits me spilling brake fluid all over myself and the garage? Cost is not really a concern (but no $2000 automatic mechanic grade equipment, please).

I've heard:
1. Stock bleeder screws, empty coke bottles, turkey baster
2. Solo-bleeder screws, empty coke bottles
3. Some combination of hydraulic / "pump" type systems.

Any suggestions for my planned usage?

Thanks!
--CKit

 

I haven't used solo-bleeders, but I have speed bleeders on my car. They're very convenient and easy to use. I would highly recommend them. You don't need another person to flush or bleed your brake fluid.

When I first installed speed bleeders on my car, one of them leaked right away. The trick to making sure speed bleeders don't leak is to buy a bottle of their sealant ($10) and apply a liberal coat on the treads before you install them. After I did that, I haven't had any leaks since.

As for changing or flushing the brake fluid, I think 2-3 times a year should be sufficient with the number of autoX and track events that you're planning for this year. I would try to schedule a fluid flush to take place before a track event. If you don't flush the brake fluid before a track event, you should bleed it a bit to at least get some "fresh" fluid in the calipers. AutoX events don't seem to tax the brake fluids much.

Just for reference, I did 16 autoX events and 13 track days last year, and I flushed the fluid four times and bled it several times.

 

I used the speed bleeders on an Integra for about 6 years. They are still on the car and so far I have had no problems with them. The main thing to remember is don't over-tighten them because that's what causes leaks.

I recently bought solo-bleeds for the S2000 because I also read that they are less prone to leaks. Unfortunately they sent me the wrong size thread when I first bought them. Then the store owner gave me a couple different sizes to try out, and one of them was the correct one. That one is installed on the right front of the car and I have had no leaks. I am waiting for the other 3 to come in.

Make sure you get the size correct, because this shop owner told me that EARLS have the incorrect size for the S in their catalog, so they package the wrong items. That's why it's taken so long to get mine correct. If you want to talk to him, here is the website: http://www.anplumbing.com

When you ask about the S2000 specifically, he should be familiar with it since he's been trying to get me the correct size.

 

My speed-bleaders have not leaked yet...

 

what size speed bleeders? the website I found does not have them for the S.

 

the solo bleeders I ordered were metric 10 x 1.25 x 33.

 

I just called Earl's and they said out of stock til 2 weeks.

 

I had speed bleeders on the Miata. Used them all the time as the car was tracked several times a month. They never leaked but they always made me nervous.

 

Speedbleeders

 

another happy speedbleeders user here