73-87chevytrucks.com
General Site Info => General Discussion => Topic started by: got2haul on November 24, 2010, 06:36:41 pm
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Brake fluid? When should it be changed?
Oil? 3 months or 3000 miles is common knowledge. What about a vehicle that is only driven a few hundred miles each year?
Other fluids?
I bring this up because I have a '89 C1500 that belonged to my dad that I drive around 300-500 miles per year. 57K miles right now.
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With all fluids there is a viscosity rating, a expert would tell you to change when the viscosity starts to break down, but since we don't have chemical labs in our basements a good rule of thumb is when they change color excessively then change them.
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I thought the viscosity of the oil never broke down just the additives in the oil?
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Oil holds moisture and contaminants from the combustion process.....
I change it at 3000 miles or 3 months regardless...
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If the vehicle isn't being driven, changing the oil every 3 months is a pointless. If it isn't being used that much and is stored in a dry environment use a good synthetic and change it two to three times a year.
Gasoline is the worst fluid to let sit. Run a fuel stabilizer as well.
Dot 3 brake fluid is hygroscopic which means it absorbs moisture. Change it biannually.
The other fluids just use your judgment.
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Some fuel stabilizers are actually worse then just old fue.some fuel stabilizers will also start to break down after a while. I personally stay away from fuel stabilizers just my 2 cents
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Then don't buy your fuel stabilizer from Ocean State Job Lot