Started 2 Person Bleeding Process - But 1 Problem

[jdbs3]

1990 Volvo 240DL

I just completed a caliper, rotor, and brake pad replacement, and am now changing the brake fluid and bleeding the system.

The MC reservoir has all new fluid in it. I started with the Bentley sequence - the left rear caliper. No fluid came out.

I then went to the other 7 bleeder valves to test them. I am getting fluid from each, some a bit slower than others due to air still in the system. Some were starting to flow nicely. I expect the others will with a few more pump-pump-holds.

I then returned to the left rear caliper. Again, no fluid coming out. My helper did note that when I open the bleeder screw, that the brake pedal would go down in a few seconds. Close the bleeder, pump and hold again, and again the pedal will go down. But again, no fluid coming out of the bleeder screw.

I could bleed the rest of the system, less this 1 caliper. But I do not think this makes any sense if I can not get fluid flowing to the problem left rear caliper.

What might the problem be, and how best to proceed?

thanks

[vegasjetskier]

No fluid and no air? The opening might be obstructed. You can try opening the screw further and see what happens. If you still don't get anything, try taking the screw completely out and look for rust or an object blocking the opening or the screw. Sometimes you can clear it by poking a wire into the opening.

[jdbs3]

RE: No fluid and no air?

Correct.

I'll try taking the bleeder screw out tomorrow. and poke around the opening.

Is it ok to also spray brake cleaner into the bleeder screw opening? Or will that contaminate the brake fluid in the caliper?

[vegasjetskier]

Is it ok to also spray brake cleaner into the bleeder screw opening?

I wouldn't.

Or will that contaminate the brake fluid in the caliper?

It might.

[billofdurham]

+1.

Do you have ABS?

Bill.