Howdy guys,

I've got an 01 cavalier and I just noticed that the cap on the brake fluid resorvior is missing. I don't know how long it's been gone, and with brake fluid being hydroscopic I don't think it's a very good idea to just leave that fluid in there after the cap is replaced.

What's the procedure for changing that fluid?

Only way to flush the brake system. Keep adding the brake fluid few times after bleeding brakes the resisvior is empty. then it should be flushed, Then top up the brake fluid after bleeding, Then it should be good to go.

open the right front bleeder and and let it sit, its will gravity bleed, check back every couple minuets and keep topping off the resovior with clean fluid. Once all the fluid in the resovior looks clean tighten that bleeder then start again with the farthest from the master and work your way closer till clean fluid comes out of each bleeder.

Hey Darkstars, I've never heard of bleeding a brake system the way you describe. Have you ever tried it,does it work, and does it take a long time? It sounds like a more convenient way to do it than the 2 person pump and bleed way I've always used. I might have to try it out.

Yes Ive heard of a method like that before Ive always used a a tool like this, If I was bleeding the brakes by myself.

I recommend a Mityvac...

http://www.mityvac.com/default.asp

I've used one for decades for bleeding anything hydraulic, or for removing fluid from things like differentials that don't have drain plugs. It's a one-person task, drawing the fluid through the system and out the bleeder screws (into a reservoir) one at a time. You just have to top up the master with fresh fluid as you go. - Mark