We used a combination of the traditional pumping the brakes while also opening and closing the caliper bleeder valves with the Gunson’s EEZIBLEED system.
Gunson’s EEZIBLEED
Combining the two methods did result in some braking action, but it was not the firm pedal that we were looking for. We let some time pass and then came back to this project.
Since the brake lines were essentially full of fluid and we had removed much of the air in the lines, we tried a slightly different approach with the EEZIBLEED system. Rather than putting fluid in the pressurized container, we simply pressurized the system to 15 pounds and used the compressed air to push the silicone brake fluid throughout the system. This process worked pretty well and we ended up with decent pedal feel. While the brakes are good enough for travel on the road and initial testing, we will undertake the bleeding process once again after we get a few miles on the car. It is just a usual iterative process with these little British cars.
On July 14, 2025, we took the restored bugeye on the road for the first time. It was a short ride at slow speed intended only to break in the new disc brake pads and rotors. We followed the recommendation of Steve Christiansen of Ol Phartz Partz from whom we purchased the rear disc brake kit. However, his instructions are very similar to that provided by both Moss Motors and by Green Stuff, maker of the brake pads we used on the front wheels.
As Steve says, “the rotors and pads require a thermal cycling process for maximum performance and longer wear. This will also lessen the likelihood of the rotors, cracking due to thermal shock. To bed in the brakes; accelerate moderately to approximately 25 mph and apply the brakes down to about 5 mph using normal to light pedal effort. Do this 8 to 10 times, slow slowly building up heat in the pads and rotors. Do not make severe stops or apply brakes during acceleration. After temperature has been built in the pads and rotors, use the brakes extremely hard several times. Park the vehicle and let the brake cool for about 1 to 2 hours until the rotors have cooled to ambient temperature.”
We completed the bedding-in ride and will test drive the car for a longer distance the next time out. The short Bugeye Restoration Video Episode One Hundred-Twelve shows a little about the final brake bleeding process and the brief test drive.
https://vimeo.com/1101278228/9cef5f77df?share=copy
