1. Introduction
The Dorman 13960 Brake Bleeder Screw Repair Kit is designed to provide a reliable solution for repairing stripped-out bleeder screw threads in brake calipers. This kit allows for the restoration of brake system functionality without the need to replace an entire caliper, offering a cost-effective repair. Constructed from durable materials, this kit ensures long-lasting performance.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Working on brake systems requires specialized knowledge and tools. Improper installation or repair can lead to brake failure, resulting in serious injury or death. If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, consult a qualified automotive technician.
Always observe the following safety precautions:
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves.
- Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on a level surface using jack stands before beginning any work.
- Disconnect the vehicle's battery if working near electrical components.
- Avoid contact with brake fluid, as it can damage paint and irritate skin. Dispose of brake fluid properly.
- Do not operate the vehicle until all brake system repairs are complete and thoroughly tested.
3. Package Contents
The Dorman 13960 Brake Bleeder Screw Repair Kit includes the following components:
- 1 Brass Insert Adapter
- 1 Bleeder Screw
Image 3.1: The Dorman 13960 Bleeder Screw Repair Kit showing the brass insert adapter and the bleeder screw.
Image 3.2: Another view of the Dorman 13960 Bleeder Screw Repair Kit components, highlighting the internal threading of the brass insert.
4. Setup and Preparation
Before beginning the repair, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials:
- Vehicle service manual (recommended for specific drill/tap sizes)
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Jack and jack stands
- Wheel lug wrench
- Brake cleaner
- Drill and appropriate drill bits (sizes not included; consult service manual)
- Tap and tap wrench (sizes not included; consult service manual)
- Thread lubricant/sealant (optional, for brass insert)
- Brake fluid (new, correct type for your vehicle)
- Bleeder wrench and clear hose for bleeding
- Container for old brake fluid
Preparation Steps:
- Park the vehicle on a firm, level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel corresponding to the caliper to be repaired.
- Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheel.
- Locate the damaged brake caliper and the stripped bleeder screw hole.
5. Installation (Operating Instructions)
This kit is designed to repair existing stripped bleeder screw threads. The process involves preparing the damaged hole to accept the new brass insert.
IMPORTANT: The specific drill bit and tap sizes required for this repair are dependent on the original bleeder screw size and the caliper material. These are NOT included in this kit. It is crucial to consult your vehicle's service manual or a professional mechanic to determine the correct drill and tap sizes for your application before proceeding.
- Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the area around the stripped bleeder screw hole on the brake caliper using brake cleaner to remove any dirt, rust, or debris.
- Remove Damaged Bleeder Screw: If any part of the old bleeder screw remains, carefully extract it. If the screw is broken off flush, you may need to drill it out.
- Drill the Hole: Using the appropriate drill bit size (determined from your service manual), carefully drill out the stripped threads. Ensure the hole is straight and centered.
- Tap the Hole: Using the correct tap size (determined from your service manual), carefully tap new threads into the drilled hole. This will create threads for the brass insert adapter. Use cutting fluid during tapping to ease the process and ensure clean threads.
- Clean New Threads: Clean the newly tapped threads thoroughly to remove any metal shavings. Use compressed air and brake cleaner, ensuring no debris enters the caliper's internal passages.
- Install Brass Insert Adapter: Apply a small amount of thread lubricant or sealant (if desired) to the external threads of the brass insert adapter. Carefully thread the brass insert adapter into the newly tapped hole in the caliper. Tighten it securely, but do not overtighten, as this can damage the new threads or the caliper.
- Install New Bleeder Screw: Thread the new bleeder screw (provided in the kit) into the brass insert adapter. Do not tighten it fully yet.
- Bleed the Brake System: With the new bleeder screw installed, proceed to bleed the brake system according to your vehicle manufacturer's specifications. This typically involves opening the bleeder screw, having an assistant depress the brake pedal, closing the bleeder screw, and then releasing the brake pedal. Repeat this process until no air bubbles are visible in the brake fluid exiting the bleeder hose.
- Final Tightening: Once bleeding is complete, tighten the bleeder screw to the manufacturer's specified torque.
- Inspect for Leaks: After bleeding, thoroughly inspect the bleeder screw and caliper for any signs of brake fluid leaks.
- Reassemble: Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle. Tighten lug nuts to manufacturer specifications.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your brake system is crucial for safety and performance. After installing the Dorman 13960 Bleeder Screw Repair Kit:
- Periodically check the repaired bleeder screw and surrounding area for any signs of brake fluid leaks.
- Ensure the bleeder screw remains properly tightened to prevent air ingress or fluid leakage.
- Follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for brake fluid flush intervals.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues after installing the repair kit, consider the following:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Brake fluid leak from bleeder screw | Bleeder screw not tightened sufficiently; damaged threads on bleeder screw or insert; improper installation of insert. | Ensure bleeder screw is torqued correctly. Inspect threads for damage; if damaged, the insert or bleeder screw may need replacement. Re-evaluate insert installation. |
| Difficulty bleeding brakes (spongy pedal) | Air still in the brake system; bleeder screw not sealing properly. | Repeat the brake bleeding procedure. Check for leaks around the bleeder screw and ensure it is sealing correctly. |
| Brass insert adapter loosens | Insert not tightened enough; threads in caliper not properly tapped. | Carefully re-tighten the brass insert. If threads are compromised, professional repair or caliper replacement may be necessary. |
8. Specifications
- Brand: Dorman
- Model: 13960
- OEM Part Number: 13960
- UPC: 037495139601
- Item Weight: Approximately 0.387 ounces
- Product Dimensions: Approximately 5.5 x 1.75 x 0.5 inches
- Material: Sturdy steel (bleeder screw), Brass (insert adapter)
- Fitment: Universal fit for bleeder screws 5/16 and under (requires proper drilling and tapping)
9. Warranty and Support
Every Dorman part is backed by Dorman's ASE Blue Seal Certified technical support team. For assistance with installation, troubleshooting, or product inquiries, please contact Dorman customer support. Refer to Dorman's official website or product packaging for specific warranty details and contact information.