I guess it's obvious.....there are many different ways to bleed brakes!! And everybody has their favorite method, most that are good and a few that border on dangerous. But the point is....that you're dealing with one of, if not the most critical systems in the automobile. It amazes me how a guy will spend hours trying to get his 2-1 carb setup tuned in, but cut corners when it comes to optimizing his braking. Assuming that the system is free of air is just plain foolhardy.
Without question, the best way to free a system of air is with the pressure can.....push out the old fluid and air and charge it with new fluid. Crack the bleeder and observe the air bubbles being exhausted. Tighten the bleeder valve and you're good to go. Basically, the tried and true method with a twist. My problem with this technique is that for me it's a PIA to get the underfloor lid sealed on the master, make sure it's tight and avoiding the mess of disconnecting and removing the pressure cap from the master. It you're working over the front fender on a fireway mounted master, you've gotta remember that brake fluid is a primo paint destroyer and one missed drop can really screw up any painted surface.
The vacuum bleeder works, but like running a hose to a catch can, opening the bleeder and pumping, AIR IS GOING TO GET SUCKED IN around the bleeder screw threads when you release the pedal. I never really felt like the job was completely done correctly.
With the "speed bleeders" which have a thread sealer already applied to the threads and a check ball and brass seat to keep air from being
sucked back into the system. Attach your catch hose and can, pump down slowly on each wheel in sequence and there will be NO air left in the system. No helper needed but I've used an extra set of eyeballs to verify that all the air was evacuated. Keep it super-simple.
The little women can continue baking her chocolate chip cookies, the sanctity of your shop will be preserved and your brakes will be safe to put on a highway.
Regardless of what system you use, you should take time to educate yourself to the proper methods, and recognize that getting it right the first time....could be a matter of life and death.
