Oils well that ends well..!

[Andy W]

Regarding suspension damper oil -
The Haynes manual states to use a thin shock absorber oil or any good quality mineral 20/50 oil.
Does that mean I can top them up with the mineral 20/50 that I use in the engine?
Wouldn't engine oil be a bit thick as the book says thin damper oil.

Regarding brake fluid -
The stated oil seems a touch hard to get hold of. Is there another code/name for this grade of oil?

Thanks in advance for your help,
Andy.

[bmcecosse]

The dampers work MUCH better with SAE 40 oil (that's not 10W40) - sold for compressors in many places. Brake fluid is DOT3 or DOT 4. Nothing fancy...

[Andy W]

Great, I'll use some grade 40 in the dampers.

If you'll excuse another daft question...can I top up the brake fluid if necessary with DOT4?
I ask in case the system has mineral oil in it & if the two can not be mixed.

Thanks.

[bmcecosse]

Mineral oil is NEVER used for brakes. Back to the dampers - best by far to drain and refill with the sae 40 - a good flush through helps too.