Brake Bleed Nipple Sheared Off!

[Stephen99]

Hello,

 

Before changing my brake fuid I did a lot of research so that I knew exactly what would be involved. I read that bleed nipples might shear and unfortunately, the same thing has happened to me. It's the one on the front, not that I expect that makes any difference.

 

Not only has the top sheared off but it seems to have sheared below the surface of the caliper, so I cannot grab the remnant with mole grips or anything like that.

 

I would think it would have to be drilled out. I know there are left-handed screw removers but when I have read about those on the 'net, reviews always seem to be uncomplimentary. I'm worried they may do more harm than good.

 

Is there anything I can do, or is it best to take it to a garage now? What would they do? Would they attempt to remove the broken part or would they just fit a new caliper?

 

Am I able to drive to the garage or should I be towed? There is a Gunson easy bleed on it pushing with 20psi and I would have thought that if I had managed to turn the nipple, by now my drive would be covered in fluid and the reservoir would be empty but nothing has happened. I think I managed to turn the top of the nipple but not the

bottom! Does this mean that the remnant is still tight and the car is safe to drive?

 

Thanks.

[Johndouglas]

Too late now - but I always give them a sharp smack, end on with a flat hammer before attempting to turn. Unless the nipple has been turned off it's seating, it can't leak. Maybe drive to an engineering workshop (with a new nipple to hand) and get them to remove it.