The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot '60-'66 Trucks Bleeding Brakes Question

Is there some trick or special tool I need to loosen/tighten the front drum brake bleeder screws? I cannot get a box end wrench on them with a bleed hose like I can with the rear drums. I can get a little deep well socket and socket wrench on them but then I can't attach a hose and I have to let the fluid squirt out all over.

Thanks,

Did you try an open end wrench?

A flare nut-wrench is invaluable for loosening brake bleeders.

Take it out into the yard/dirt/gravel or put newspaper under, only a small amount comes out if you have two people doing the bleed for those two wheels (This is the main reason for staying married), Then wash off with Brake Kleen or other.

I must say that while a little expensive I do like the Speed Bleeders which, in that case, we don't need the wifey to get dirty. Keep her cooking in the kitchen

A brake bleeder wrench would be the best tool for this. While a flare nut wrench could work, they tend to be bulkier than a standar box end, and may not clear. Using an open end is sure fire way to round off a bleeder screw.

...nice wrench woog. MY personal pick to start with is a 1/4" drive and a deep socket.....and I have a boxed end wrench that is almost in the shape of a "C" that lets me get most of'em loose.

The wife stays in the truck to operate the pedal, no dirt. He does not have a problem getting it loose, he has a problem with getting a wrench AND hose on at the same time.

I just have a 2man 1 holding his finger over the hole during the up stroke of the pedal. catch the run off in a can. U uually can't re-use it anyway

the worst part is initially breaking the bleeder free in the first place. after that you can use an open end wrench during the process. deep 6 point socket to break it free. one does not need tremendous pressure to seat the bleeder. it just gets frozen from inactivity
ron

Nothing beats a set of speed bleeders.............

Actually, John T is right, but who has $20?

good lord.......

the day before you bleed the brakes spray pb blaster, or a 50/50 mixture of acetone and transmission fluid on the bleeders. a line wrench, or 6 point sockets usually works pretty good, but before you try to loosen the bleeders, take a moment to take a small hammer and TIGHTEN the bleeder with a light tap first. yeah... i know. then, again with the hammer, light taps to loosen the bleeder. it sorts of works like an impact hammer, and as long as you don't go stupis rambo with the hammer, usually works. as for gettin a bit of brake fluid on you being a problem, a thicker brand of underwear usually helps.

ok.....ok.... i'll stop.

the key is, lots of penetrating oil, and patience.

Put a piece of clear, flexible hose on the end of the bleeder and the loose end, into a drain pan, beer can or whatever container you choose, to catch the run-off. The clear hose allows you to see the clarity/cleanliness of the fluid and whether there are bubbles present.