AP Lockheed Hydraulic Fluids

The life Blood of the Braking System

The performance of the hydraulic fluid in vehicles is of vital importance to the effective working of their braking systems.

Over recent years, the use of discs has become much more prevalent; brakes have become 'buried' inside smaller, wider wheels; under-bonnet spaces have become more crowded and consequently hotter and car performance has risen dramatically. Also, the use of semi-metallic friction materials has speeded up the transfer of braking heat to the fluid. Consequently, hydraulic fluids are now required to operate under much more demanding conditions, where high temperature performance or low temperature viscosity are critical to safe braking.

Developing the Technology

AP Lockheed has continued to develop the chemical technology on which their advanced brake fluids are based, producing ever higher performance fluids that exceed the specification requirements of DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1

However, brake fluids have a tendency to absorb moisture from the air. This moisture reduces the boiling point of the hydraulic fluid, creating the risk of vapour lock at high operating temperatures, and poor viscosity at low temperatures. The consequence is deterioration in the performance of the braking system or potentially even total system failure.

The higher the boiling point of the fluid, the greater the safety margin.

D.O.T. - An International Performance Standard for Brake Fluids

Brake fluids are required to meet a number of international standards; for example FMVSS 116, issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation - hence the reference to DOT. Fluids are assessed on their temperature stability, chemical compatibility with materials, corrosion- resistance, lubricity and wear, with the most critical parts of the DOT standards relating to their behaviour at extremes of both high and low temperature. There are a number of different grades of fluid, starting at DOT 3 and rising through DOT 4 to DOT 5.1,the latter specifically designed to meet the demanding viscosity requirements of ABS braking systems. In addition to high boiling point characteristics, AP Lockheed fluids exhibit excellent viscosity, lubricity and anti-corrosion properties - factors critical to the maintenance of effective braking, and to the protection of the braking system itself.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD BRAKE FLUID?

Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture and its boiling point could be reduced to dangerous levels.

In general the higher the initial boiling point characteristics of the fluid the higher the safety margin. However, with some brake fluids the addition of small amounts of moisture quickly reduces the boiling point to unsatisfactory levels. To combat this, AP Lockheed brake fluids are chemically designed to have low water absorption qualities to maintain effective braking performance for longer periods of time.

The AP Lockheed Brake and Clutch Fluid Range

SUPER 105/UNIVERSAL DOT 3

AP Lockheed SUPER 105/UNIVERSAL DOT 3 is ideal for vehicles other than those where DOT 4 was specified as original fill. With a typical dry boiling point of 254'C, it exceeds the minimum DOT 3 standard of 205'C by a huge safety margin, and with a typical wet boiling point of 150'C combined with a high level of resistance to water absorption. AP Lockheed SUPER 105/UNIVERSAL DOT 3 is one of the highest performance DOT 3 fluids available.

This formulation also contains a lubricating additive which maximises service life, and makes it suitable for use with the latest seal and hose materials. It fully conforms to FMVSS 11 6 DOT 3 and SAE J 1703.

SUPER DOT 4

Most of today's vehicles are originally filled with DOT 4 brake fluid on the production line.

With its high boiling point, excellent lubricity and impressive viscosity, AP Lockheed's SUPER DOT 4 meets or exceeds the original fill requirements of leading vehicle manufacturers,

Its typical dry boiling point of 270'C and typical wet boiling point of 173'C far exceed the minimum requirements of the DOT 4 standard (230'C dry / 155'C wet), and provides an extended effective braking performance period. It conforms fully to FMVSS 116 DOT 4.

ULTRA DOT 5.1 (Non-Silicone)

AP Lockheed's ULTRA DOT 5.1 has been specifically designed to cope with the demands of extreme driving conditions, high performance vehicles and the specific viscosity requirements of ABS braking systems. With its impressive boiling point characteristics (typical dry 270'C / typical wet 186'C) and a maximum viscosity at minus 40'C of 760 Centistokes, AP Lockheed's ULTRA DOT 5.1 provides safer and more effective braking performance for longer periods. This technically advanced synthetic fluid provides the ultimate in road-going braking at all extremes of temperature and vehicle performance.

AP Lockheed ULTRA DOT 5.1 also conforms to the requirements of FMVSS 116 DOT 5.1 and can be mixed with AP Lockheed DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids.

LHM Plus+

This premium performance mineral-based hydraulic fluid has been specifically developed for use in vehicles requiring this type of fluid, such as Citroens. AP Lockheed LHM PLUS+ contains special additives to protect against pump wear, and to give excellent rust and corrosion protection. These additives also protect against the common problem of sludge formation and consequential filter blocking. A high viscosity index, particularly at low temperatures, gives excellent flow rates throughout the system, together with impressive film strength and fluid performance.

AP Lockheed LHM PLUS+ is fully compatible with all high pressure central hydraulic system parts, and will not cause deterioration of the internal parts, seals or hoses. It is formulated to meet the higher specification requirements of ISO 7308, Ford ESN M6C59A and Citroen LHM B71 2710 (Post 1985).

NOTE : AP Lockheed LHM PLUS+ Mineral-based fluid is not compatible with hydraulic systems requiring a glycol-based fluid. To differentiate it, it is dyed GREEN, and system components which use mineral-based fluid, are colour-coded GREEN.

Advanced Packaging - Specifically for Hydraulic Fluids

The packaging of brake fluid is particularly important to ensure that it remains in perfect condition up to the point of use. AP Lockheed fluids are available in a range of advanced, high density, polyethylene polymer bottles. Lighter yet stronger than alternative packs, these rectangular bottles are easier to transport and store, with wasted space reduced to a minimum. To ensure optimum protection from moisture ingress, these packs are equipped with the very latest technology wadded caps, which are also tamper evident to provide product security.

Twenty litre bulk packs are also available in the innovative bag-in-the-box format, which features a unique, one-way tap and collapsible inner bladder, to ensure that the fluid remains fresh and unaffected by moisture during storage. A new style, high strength, more compact box now provides improved protection during transportation. Where preferred, for recyclability or "deep-sea" export, all DOT 3/4/5.1 fluids are also available packaged in high strength tins.

Multipacks are further protected by lightweight , yet strong, cardboard outer boxes.

The Need for Change

Advances in automotive technology mean that now, more than ever, it is vitally important that brake fluid is either tested on a regular basis, and changed as required, or changed regularly as a matter of course. To help garages do this quickly and efficiently, AP Lockheed has developed a complete brake fluid servicing package, comprising of a Brake Fluid Safety Meter, a Pressure Brake Bleeder and Eric, all designed specifically for the vehicle maintenance and repair trade.

Why should we have regular brake fluid changes?

TO MAINTAIN BRAKING PERFORMANCE

The safety meter determines the boiling point of brake fluid which deteriorates with age and use. The boiling point falls progressively as water is attracted out of the atmosphere by the hygroscope nature of brake fluid. Fluid with a high water content can easily boil in a brake cylinder, either due to the handbrake dragging, new linings bedding in, or frequent high speed braking. The vapour generated by the boiling fluid displaces brake fluid back into the master cylinder, with the result that the brake pedal will go to the floor without effect when attempting to brake, with potentially fatal results.

This is especially true of today's motoring where the demands placed on the braking system are much more extreme, and the advent of ABS braking systems and asbestos-free materials require brake fluids to work that much harder.

THE VITAL KEY TO ENSURING OPTIMUM LEVELS OF SAFETY

The importance of ensuring that the fluid in a vehicle's braking system is up to the job, is a task that has all too often been ignored. The ultimate consequence of this neglect can be a complete failure of the braking system.

It is therefore vital that the boiling point of the brake fluid is measured regularly, as this will indicate whether the fluid is within specification, and, consequently whether the fluid needs replacing.

Measuring the boiling point of brake fluids is a task that is normally beyond the practical capabilities of most Garages and Service Centre's.

That is, until now. In conjunction with a leading instrument manufacturer, AP Lockheed has produced the AP Lockheed Brake Fluid Safety Meter - a reliable, easy-to-use instrument designed to establish the condition of a vehicle's brake fluid in a matter of minutes.

What is the AP LOCKHEED Brake Fluid Safety Meter?

MAKING REGULAR BRAKE FLUID TESTING A PRACTICAL PROPOSITION

The safety meter is designed to be mounted in an easily accessible position, where it can he used regularly. A garage toolboard is one possibility, the meter has a suitable loop and the probe is fitted with a cover to prevent contamination by dust etc. You may wish to screw the hook through the instruction leaflet, which is then always available to view once the meter is unhooked.

The safety meter is a compact simple to use instrument that can be used to test the brake fluid in virtually any vehicle within the workshop.

Powered from the vehicles own battery, or from a remote 12V supply, the meter accurately measures the actual boiling point of the brake fluid within the reservoir in seconds.

Thermocouple

Heating Element

Minimum immersion level

Vents

It's fast - tests can be completed in under a couple of minutes. And it's accurate, as it actually measures the boiling point of the fluid typically to within plus or minus two degrees centigrade. Easy to follow operating instructions minimise the need for operator training. The safety meter is rugged and durable, and is designed for regular use within the workshop environment. It comes with a full 12 month 'no quibble' warranty.

A high strength carrying case complete with a specially moulded interior protects the unit during transit or storage. A small pipette and test cartridge supplied with each meter can be used to extract a test sample of brake fluid from the one or two models on the market that have a non-removable mesh covering the brake fluid. reservoir which prevents the standard test probe from being inserted into the fluid.

What are the benefits of the AP LOCKHEED Brake Fluid Safety Meter?

• Fast - Tests can be completed in under a minute.

• Accurate - Boiling point values are typically measured to within ±1 %

• Versatile - The meter can be used to test the brake fluid on virtually any vehicle using DOT3, DOT4 and DOT5.1. It should not be used on mineral oil or silicone based fluids.

• Simple to Use - Easy-to-follow operating instructions minimise the need for operator training.

• Rugged and Durable - As you would naturally expect from a product bearing the AP Lockheed name, the Safety Meter is designed for regular use within the workshop environment, and comes with a full 1 2 month warranty. It is also supplied complete with a handy carrying case, which provides additional protection for the meter during transit or storage.

What is the AP LOCKHEED PRESSURE BRAKE BLEEDER used for?

SIMPLIFYING THE TASK OF BRAKE FLUID REPLACEMENT

The AP Lockheed pressure brake bleeder has been specifically designed to make the replacement of brake fluid a task that can be completed by a single operator, in a fraction of the time needed using traditional methods, and is compatible with ABS systems. Typically, a complete change of brake fluid can be completed in 12 to 15 minutes. Because it uses the principle of flushing the old out with the new, there's no danger of damaging the master cylinder by constantly pushing down hard on the brakes to clear the old fluid. Once fresh fluid has appeared at an opened bleed nipple, the nipple is simply tightened, and the process is then repeated in turn at each system bleed point.

In addition to a wide range of standard reservoir connections, each bleeder is supplied with a Universal Adapter Kit which enables the pressure bleeder to be used on virtually any vehicle on the road, and in keeping with the best engineering solutions, it's quick and simple to use.

The Universal Adapter sealing unit which replaces the reservoir cap is placed over the reservoir neck and held in place by a simple strap around the cylinder. The unit is then ratcheted up until a firm seal is achieved and the bleeding operation can then take place.

What are the benefits of the AP LOCKHEED Pressure Brake Bleeder ?

• Simple and Quick to Use - A single operator can usually complete the task in under 15 minutes - a massive saving in time and labour.

• Versatile - The AP Lockheed Pressure Brake Bleeder is supplied with a wide range of reservoir connectors, making it suitable for use with most vehicles.

• Portable - An integral handle makes it easy to transport the Brake Bleeder from vehicle to vehicle.

What or who is ERIC?

Environmentally Reprocessed Industrial Chemicals

AP Lockheed's Unique Waste Brake Fluid Collection Scheme Helping YOU to Meet YOUR Obligations.

The passing of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 introduced the concept of Duty of Care, which, in simple terms, placed the responsibility for the safe disposal of environmentally harmful materials firmly with the producer.

The Duty of Care Regulations were implemented in 1992, and placed five basic obligations on the waste producer.

1) The waste must be properly contained so that it cannot escape.

2) The producer must give an adequate description to the next holder of the waste.

3) The producer must pass on the waste to a responsible person and cheek out their credentials. 4) The producer must ensure, whenever possible, that his actions do not result in the next holder committing an offence e.g. by mixing wastes resulting in false descriptions.

5) Records of all waste transfer documents must be held for three years, and may be inspected by the Environment Agency at any time.

Enforcement of Waste Regulations is now carried out by the Environment Agency for England and Wales, and by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, both formed on implementation of the Environment Act 1995. These Agencies are all self-funding, and will only survive by charging for permits and by levying fines. In September 1996, the Special Waste Regulations were implemented, which change the categorisation of Special Wastes, introduce a fee system and use new documentation.

To meet the requirements of this legislation,

AP Lockheed, in partnership with Safety Kleen, has developed the award-winning E.R.I.C. scheme.

How does the E.R.I.C. Scheme Work?

Garages which agree to purchase their brake fluid requirements from AP Lockheed in 20 litre bag-in-the- box form (the best and most economic way to purchase brake fluid and the most environmentally friendly, as all the packaging is totally recyclable) and who pay a small initial fee (to cover the delivery and indefinite loan of a 50 litre drum and screw-in funnel), can have their waste brake fluid collected by Safety Kleen totally free-of-charge. AP Lockheed pays the collection charge and Safety Kleen takes care of all the paperwork and other necessary administration. Garages can continue to enjoy this free collection benefit, provided that they continue to purchase their brake fluid in bag-in-the-box form from AP Lockheed, who carry out regular purchase and collection audits.

Completing the Disposal Task

Once collected, waste brake fluid is taken to one of Safety Kleen's 18 regional licensed facilities and then to the central processing plant at Dinnington, near Sheffield, where it is blended with waste solvents and oils collected from the automotive industry to produce a fuel which is used in the manufacture of cement. This fuel burns at temperatures in excess of 1400'c, and under the alkaline conditions prevalent within these kilns, complete destruction of organic materials and associated contaminants is assured.

The use of these fuels in the production of cement is considered by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Pollution (HMIP) to be the Best Practicable Environmental Option (BPEO).

HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION

Product:

SUPER 105/UNIVERSAL DOT 3, SUPER DOT 4 and ULTRA DOT 5.1.

Usage:

Automotive Hydraulic Brake and Clutch Systems. Always follow vehicle manufacturer's instructions when adding fluid.

Appearance:

Transparent, thin liquid, pale amber in colour.

Composition:

Blend of polyalkylene glycol ethers and polyalkylene glycols.

Storage:

Keep in a clean, dry storage area at moderate temperatures. Store in original container only, always keep sealed except when in use. Chemical structure remains stable indefinitely at normal temperatures. Non- corrosive and classified as non-flammable but combustible. Do not refill container, and do not use for storing other liquids. Contamination with dirt, water or other materials may result in brake system failure.

Spillage Procedures:

Cover area with absorbents. After removal flush thoroughly with water.

Note: Brake fluid will damage most types of painted surface.

Fire Risk.

Never expose to a naked flame.

Dependent on type of fluid, typical flash points will vary between 1050C and 1500C. Fires involving fluid can be attacked by any conventional method. i.e. powder, foam or water, as brake fluid is water miscible.

Health Hazards:

1.Avoid eye contact.

2. Avoid prolonged or regular skin contact.

3. Do not swallow fluid.

4. Keep out of reach of children.

First Aid:

1.Flush eyes thoroughly with copious quantities of tepid water. 2. Wash off with soap and water - may cause defatting of skin surface with possibility of rashes or skin infection. Seek medical advice for treatment.

3. If swallowed seek medical advice immediately.

AP Lockheed

Your Guarantee of Quality

AP Lockheed is one of the few remaining brake system manufacturers with its own in-house facilities for research and development, full testing in purpose-designed rigs and production. AP Lockheed has also invested in the latest automated labelling and filling equipment.

So, when you buy AP Lockheed hydraulic fluid, you know you can rely on a level of quality that reflects the company's advanced technology and unrivalled expertise.