What you'll need:
* Brake fluid: Use DOT 3 brake fluid. Important: Never use anything else. The wrong fluid can damage your system.
* Wrench: The correct size to fit the bleeder screws on your calipers and wheel cylinders (usually 8mm or 10mm). A flare nut wrench is best to avoid rounding the bleeder screws.
* Clear tubing: About 18-24 inches long, to fit over the bleeder screw and into a container.
* Container: A jar or bottle to catch the old brake fluid.
* Clean rags: To wipe up spills.
* Assistant: To pump the brake pedal.
Steps:
1. Locate the bleeder screws: These are usually located on the top of each caliper (for disc brakes) and on the back of each wheel cylinder (for drum brakes). The Pontiac Transport likely has disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear.
2. Top off the master cylinder: Open the master cylinder reservoir and check the fluid level. Top it off to the "full" line with fresh DOT 3 brake fluid. Do not let the master cylinder run dry.
3. Prepare the system: Have your assistant sit in the driver's seat and ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
4. Bleeding sequence (crucial): The correct order is generally Rear Passenger, Rear Driver, Front Passenger, Front Driver. This sequence helps to ensure that all air is pushed out efficiently. Some mechanics suggest starting with the furthest wheel from the master cylinder.
5. Bleeding a wheel: Attach the clear tubing to the bleeder screw on one of the rear wheels. Submerge the other end of the tubing into your container of brake fluid.
6. Pumping the brakes: Have your assistant firmly and repeatedly pump the brake pedal several times. Then have them hold the pedal down firmly.
7. Open the bleeder screw: While your assistant holds the pedal down, carefully open the bleeder screw about 1/4 to 1/2 turn. You should see brake fluid flowing into the tube. If there are air bubbles, continue pumping.
8. Close the bleeder screw: Once the flow of fluid is constant and free of bubbles, close the bleeder screw tightly. Have your assistant release the brake pedal.
9. Repeat: Repeat steps 5-8 for each wheel, following the correct bleeding sequence. You may need to repeat the pumping and bleeding process for each wheel several times to remove all air.
10. Check the master cylinder: After bleeding all four wheels, check the master cylinder reservoir and top it off if necessary.
11. Test the brakes: Carefully test the brakes. If the pedal feels spongy or soft, there may still be air in the system, and you'll need to repeat the bleeding process. If the pedal feels firm and responsive, the bleeding is complete.
Important Considerations:
* Wear safety glasses: Brake fluid is corrosive and can damage your eyes.
* Keep the reservoir topped off: Never let the master cylinder run low on fluid.
* Use a helper: This job is much easier with two people.
* Persistent Air: If you're having trouble getting all the air out, you might have a more serious problem in the brake system (like a leak). In that case, you should take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
This detailed guide should help you successfully bleed your brakes. If you are unsure about any part of this process, it's always best to seek professional assistance from a mechanic. Improperly bled brakes are dangerous.
