DOT 5 brake fluid

[satterfi]

Can I use DOT 5 brake fluid as a substitute for silicon oil?

[ April 22, 2003, 02:49 PM: Message edited by: satterfi ]

 

[7TFord]

I am not familiar with the applications of silicone oil. Where is it used? The only place that I've used the Dot 5 brake fluid other than in my classic car, is to lubricate the mechanism of my "Mityvac" vacuum pump.

 

[satterfi]

My helmet calls for silicon oil on the visor pivot point. Silicon spray works but to keep it from going where I don't want it I spray it into a cup and let the propellent evaporate then apply it.

 

[7TFord]

I think the reason that it is recommending the use of a silicone oil, is that it has no petroleum distillates in it which could damage the plastic components of the helmet. Oddly enough I did just that on a snomobile helmet some years back. I sprayed a petroleum based lubricant directly onto the hinge and it disintegrated instantly. You should be fine in using the Dot 5 product.

 

[9c1]

I didn't think that DOT 5 has any lubricating properties. It probably will not hurt your helmet and face shield, but I'm not sure that it will provide much lubrication either.