Proper brake fluid?

[Frenchy]

Gentlemen, what brake fluid is correct for a 1964 Bristol 408 with the 313 engine and cast iron case Torqueflite automatic? It has the 4 wheel discs, but I haven't gotten into it re whether it has Dunlop calipers or Girling, or did this series only ever have one brand, and which was that and the suitable fluid?
Thanks!

[Ronald G. Stephenson]

No mystery here. Back in the day, most fluids were DOT certified in the U.S. and I am sure other countries used a similar standard. DOT 3 or better is just fine. Some people now use the silicone, but that requires a complete rebuild and flushing to go that route. I wouldn't do it unless I re-did the entire system. The two fluids are not compatible, so don't take chances here.

[MINSTER 407]

The handbook for my 1963 407 (same brakes I believe) specified the old ratings SAE 70R1 or SAE 70R3, & as Ronald says this equates to contemporary DOT3 or DOT4 I believe.

[Frenchy]

Thanks for the replies - someone mentioned Castrol LMA brake fluid to me, but I'm not sure what that is - whether DOT 3 or DOT 4 - anyone know?

[Janne]

I used DOT 4 in UK, but here I switched to DOT 5.1. Higher boiling point, but the same base chemistry.
It was not easy to source.

[Janne]

Originally Posted by Frenchy

Thanks for the replies - someone mentioned Castrol LMA brake fluid to me, but I'm not sure what that is - whether DOT 3 or DOT 4 - anyone know?

Castrol writes it exceeds DOT 3 and DOT 4. Sounds like DOT 5.1.

[David Olivant]

my 1964 408 has Dunlop brakes, Girling appeared on the Mk2 408.
I used DOT 5.1 and have done for a couple of years.