Stuck Bleeder valves

Pritchard · 10-14-1999, 09:14 AM

I need some help. The bleeder valves on all four calipers are frozen in place. I have tried no-name penetrating oil and vice grips (the valves were already rounded off when I got the car) to no avail. Any thoughts? It sure would be nice to be able to bleed the brakes.

MORE PELICAN PRAISE! I just received my AA catalog (I don't order, I only look at the pictures) and PP's prices are lower on everything that I have ordered! (from PP of course)

Dave Bell · 10-14-1999, 09:49 AM

It may only be my poor quality vise grips which slip on stuff, but I always have better fortune with a long handled pair of channel lock pliers with stuff that is stripped... or even unstripped for that matter. It is quite amazing how much gripping pressure you can get when you are sqweezing hard on the ends of those long handles. Also... keep putting in the liquid wrench stuff a couple times a day while you are figuring out what to do next.

- Dave

JP Noonan · 10-14-1999, 11:24 AM

The no name (and some brand names too) stuff is pretty worthless. Stay away from WD-40 (yes it works on occasion, but it is mostly alchohol). I've found PB Blaster is the best. Spray it on, then tap the bolt with something. Repeat. The tapping helps get the penetrant in there. About Vise grips, they can be sharpened. Use a small "v" file to make the teeth pointed again, or buy a new pair. Be patient.

Once you get the bleeder out, replace them!!!

Be prepared, if you break off a bleeder, you need to remove the caliper, drill out and tap the bleeder, and because of all the shavings you may need to rebuild the caliper. Best thing is if you break the bleeder take the caliper to a machine shop.

John Rogers · 10-14-1999, 01:08 PM

As JP said the best option is to take them to a good machine shop since at the bottom of those little valves is the seat that the valve seals against when closed and if the drill goes to far it would damage the seat, that would be a pretty hard item to get repaired.