How to check and replace brake fluid on a 1967 Shelby GT500?

The brakes are one of the most crucial safety components of any vehicle, and the 1967 Shelby GT500 is no exception. Over time, the brake fluid in your Shelby can become dirty or decrease in level, which can compromise the effectiveness of your braking system. Symptoms of old or low brake fluid include a spongy feeling when pressing the brake pedal, a decrease in braking efficiency, or even warning lights on your dashboard. To ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy, it's important to check and replace the brake fluid. Here is how to solve this issue.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting, make sure you have the following items:

• A bottle of DOT 3 brake fluid
• A turkey baster or a brake fluid syringe
• A set of wrenches
• A clean rag or towel
• A container to dispose of old brake fluid
• Safety gloves and goggles

Step 2: Locate the Brake Fluid Reservoir

Open the hood of your 1967 Shelby GT500. The brake fluid reservoir is typically located on the driver’s side, near the back of the engine bay, close to the firewall. It is a small, translucent plastic container with a tightly-sealed cap. The cap often has a label on it, specifying “Brake Fluid” and sometimes the type (DOT 3).

Step 3: Inspect the Brake Fluid Level and Condition

Remove the cap from the brake fluid reservoir. Check the fluid level against the “MIN” and “MAX” marks on the side of the reservoir. Also, examine the color of the fluid. Fresh brake fluid is clear or slightly yellow; if it appears dark brown or murky, it needs to be replaced.

Step 4: Remove Old Brake Fluid

Use a turkey baster or a brake fluid syringe to extract the old brake fluid from the reservoir. Place the fluid into a suitable waste container. Be careful not to spill any fluid on your car's paint, as brake fluid can be corrosive.

Step 5: Refill with Fresh Brake Fluid

After removing most of the old fluid, wipe the interior of the reservoir with a clean rag to remove any remaining residue. Pour the new DOT 3 brake fluid into the reservoir, filling it up to the “MAX” line. Be sure to pour carefully to avoid introducing air bubbles into the system.

Step 6: Bleed the Brakes

To ensure there are no air bubbles in the brake lines, you will need to bleed the brakes. Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder, usually the rear passenger side, and move inwards. Attach a clear tube to the bleeder valve, place the other end in a container, and have someone press the brake pedal. Open the bleeder valve with a wrench to allow old fluid and air to escape, then close it before releasing the pedal. Repeat this process until only fresh fluid flows through, then move to the next wheel.

Step 7: Check the Brake Pedal Feel and Fluid Level

Once all wheels have been bled, check the feel of the brake pedal. It should feel firm, not spongy. Recheck the brake fluid level in the reservoir and top it off if necessary. Ensure the cap is securely replaced on the reservoir.

Step 8: Dispose of Old Brake Fluid Properly

Dispose of the old brake fluid at an approved recycling center or hazardous waste disposal site. Do not pour it down the drain or into the ground.

By following these steps, you will have successfully checked and replaced the brake fluid in your 1967 Shelby GT500, ensuring that your braking system remains in top condition.