Self-bleeding (so to speak) is on my wish list. I'm considering speed bleeders, but I also see these one-person bleeder kits for $20-$30 (US) on eBay and at the parts stores. From what I've read, it seems the kits do basically the same thing as speed bleeders... For anybody who has used both, is there any advantage to speed bleeders?

I've always used a MityVac which allows you to bleed the brakes without having to get in and out of a car that's sitting on a jack stand. Seems that using SpeedBleeders would make the job a no-brainer though.

My only complaint with MityVac is you have to put some grease around the base of the bleed screw. If you don't, the MityVac will try to draw some air past the threads.

Speed Bleeders work as advertised. However, there's still some in-and-out of the car to do. The MityVac - just looking at the specs quickly - look like a great alternative. Although, actually, I'd consider them in tandem. Just thread a bit of teflon on the bleeder when you install it to keep fluid from getting through the threads (sound like the Mity creates a lot of pressure). Together, I think you're looking at, what, $100 and you could probably bleed your system as easily as check the tire pressure!

i use a bleeder hooked up to shop air...sucks it all out in less than 10 mins.

You can get a one-man bleeder bottle for $7 from Harbor Freight. I've used mine on many cars, and I just chuck it and get a new one when it gets too dirty or the hoses fall apart.

I also have a mightyvac but the one man bleeder works just as well. You want good thread seals on the bleeder screws no matter what method you use. It helps to only crack them open them enough to let fluid out.

You can get a one-man bleeder bottle for $7 from Harbor Freight. I've used mine on many cars, and I just chuck it and get a new one when it gets too dirty or the hoses fall apart.

I also have a mightyvac but the one man bleeder works just as well. You want good thread seals on the bleeder screws no matter what method you use. It helps to only crack them open them enough to let fluid out.
It's only $4.99. I've also used the hose with the one-way valve at the end. That works too. Sometimes, I use a reverse bleeder. Just obsessed with bleeding brakes. ;)

I was going to get some speed bleeders but I realized it's an over-engineered solution to a problem that is much more easily solved. Get someone to pump the brakes for you.

You can buy one of these off eBay for $25 or less and accomplish the same thing with one person. Or you can get the fancier version with the carrying case for $50. --> MITYVAC (http://www.mityvac.com/pages/products_hvpk.asp#06820)

http://www.mityvac.com/images/products/hvpk_06820.gif

I was going to get some speed bleeders but I realized it's an over-engineered solution to a problem that is much more easily solved. Get someone to pump the brakes for you.

Not quite.

When someone pumps for you, you have to crack the bleeder open and closed. The bleeders don't have sealant on the threads, so you should really stop before the pedal is at the floor. It's possible to do, and just fine if you only bleed every year or so.

If you bleed all the time (track days), then the speed bleeders are handy even with a friend.

I found the bleed valve on the caliper, and am wondering if it is necessary to remove the tire in order to bleed the brakes, install speedbleeders, or unscrew the stock oem bleed valve.