Tools You'll Need:
* Brake fluid: Use DOT 3 brake fluid (check your owner's manual to be sure). Never use anything else.
* Wrench: The correct size to fit the bleeder valve on your calipers and wheel cylinders. Usually 8mm or 10mm.
* Clear tubing: Long enough to reach a container.
* Container: To catch the old brake fluid.
* Pliers (optional): For easier turning of the bleeder valve if the wrench doesn't give good grip.
* Helper: Having someone pump the brake pedal is crucial.
* Gloves: Brake fluid is corrosive.
* Shop rags: For cleaning up spills.
Procedure:
1. Prepare the Truck: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake firmly.
2. Locate Bleeder Valves: These are usually located on the top of the brake calipers (disc brakes) or on the wheel cylinders (drum brakes). You'll have one for each wheel.
3. Prepare the System: Open the brake fluid reservoir cap. Keep an eye on the fluid level throughout the process; it'll drop as you bleed the system. Add more fluid as needed to keep the reservoir at least half full – running it low can introduce air into the system.
4. Bleeding Order: The standard bleeding order is usually Rear Passenger, Rear Driver, Front Passenger, Front Driver. This order ensures the furthest point from the master cylinder is bled first. This is generally a good order, but it’s worth checking your owner's manual.
5. Attach Tubing and Container: Attach one end of the clear tubing to the bleeder valve, and the other end to the container.
6. Bleeding a Single Wheel: Have your helper slowly and steadily pump the brake pedal several times. Then, have them hold the pedal down firmly. Open the bleeder valve slowly using your wrench. You should see brake fluid flowing through the tubing. Close the bleeder valve before your helper releases the brake pedal.
7. Repeat: Repeat steps 5 and 6 several times for each wheel until the fluid running through the tubing is clear and free of bubbles. You should not see any air bubbles in the fluid exiting the bleeder valve for several pumps.
8. Check Fluid Level: After bleeding each wheel, check and top up the master cylinder brake fluid reservoir.
9. Test the Brakes: Once all four wheels are bled, pump the brake pedal several times to make sure it feels firm and responsive. Test the brakes gently at low speed in a safe, open area. If the pedal feels spongy or the brakes are not working correctly, repeat the bleeding procedure.
Important Considerations:
* Power Brakes: If your truck has power brakes, the pedal will feel much firmer than on a vehicle with manual brakes.
* ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): If your truck has ABS, bleeding the brakes might require a more specialized procedure, potentially using a scan tool to activate the ABS pump. A professional mechanic is generally recommended in these cases.
* Fluid Changes: If the brake fluid is very dark or dirty, consider changing the fluid completely. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces its effectiveness.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable with this process, take your truck to a qualified mechanic. Improperly bled brakes are a serious safety hazard.
This is a general guide. Always check your owner's manual for specific instructions related to your 1995 Chevy truck. Safety should always be your top priority.
