Originally Posted by
jimc101
Really old brakes? not really, just old, anything older then the current design, which came from around 2011/12
It may not be rocket science, but it was far more hassle than it needed to be to bleed them (if using the correct tools) the current cup system is super easier in comparison for the user.
Sure you can still buy the tool, I did years ago, and it was meh, the foam pad didn't last, and that was for a home user, for the cost of the tool (unless your a shop) put that money into a new set of brake (or just levers as all Shimano levers are interchangeable) with the bleed port on the lever, as it will be cheaper in time and lack of frustration as the bleed process is far much easier with the current system.
Its a matter of degree. As a working mechanic I see about 50 newer Shimano brakes with bleed ports at the lever to one of the older style. They do hold up better than some of their contemporaries... In contrast, if I were taking road bikes, "really old" might be, I dunno, pre 70s bike boom, from my perspective.