Over the years brake bleeder valves can become rusted and corroded. Many auto manufacturers install rubber caps over them to stop the corrosion. But when they do corrode, a simple brake job can turn into a headache. At times, in order to bleed the brakes, the only solution is to replace the brake caliper or wheel cylinder. There are, though, several things that can be done to try and save the job by removing the defective bleeder valve and installing a new one.
Instructions
- 1
Remove the defective part--either the front caliper or rear wheel cylinder--from the vehicle. Wheel cylinders are held in place by two bolts located on either side of the bleeder valve. These may be as corroded as the bleeder valve. If the bolts cannot be easily removed, grind the bolt heads off and install a new wheel cylinder. If the caliper bleeder valve is defective, remove the caliper by unbolting it from its mount and removing the brake hose. Capture the escaping brake fluid with a bucket.
2Mount the defective part in a shop vise. Lubricate the bleeder valve threads with a light oil or spray lube. Carefully examine the valve. Use a 6-point wrench or socket to remove the bleeder valve if possible. If it strips and rounds over, try vise-lock pliers to firmly clamp the valve and remove it.
3Drill the bleeder valve out of the part and create new threads with a tap. Do not drill too deeply and damage the valve seat. Clean the thread residue out of the part with aerosol brake cleaner and install a new valve.
