So I now have this NEARLY stock 1983 FLH in good condition.

Winter has arrives so...
Decided to tear into the front end for various reasons... fork leaking oil, rough ride, wimpy stopping power in disk (banana) brake.

Got new fork seals, Progressive springs, damper rods ready to go.
Now wondering... should I?
dump the old brake system for something more modern
OR
spend $ to replace seals, pads, brake line, etc and keep the original.
... which may or may not improve braking.

original look and parts is good (and more valuable)
BUT... important improvements like brakes make me want to ride more often.

so is there a good front disk replacement that work with original master cylinder I should consider?
my current rotor is 10", but willing to replace it too if that makes it work.

 

Just my opinion but I would keep it NEARLY stock 1983 FLH in good condition. Rebuild them and they will be fine. If the brakes are rebuilt twice as strong, that part of the tire we run on is not going to stop any faster. In fact, re-engineering it may just make it touchy and worst.

 

after fixing the fork leaks don't use what Harley says works as in fork oil - get a quart of regular lawn mower 30W engine oil - the anulators in those are very week and need a real thick oil to ride very smooth - it might not sound right but it is the only thing I use in the shop 30 plus years

 

I agree on both counts above...certainly the banana will slide the font wheel, and I find it easy to Modulate.
The Fork oil...I used the belray heavy..but, good ole lawn mower oil makes sense...cheaper too..

 

Appreciate the feedback - guess i will try to refurb the old banana brake.
Curiously, the rear one works pretty well so maybe i can get it there.

Dumb question - what is the socket size and type of the 4 bolts to get that caliper apart?

As to the fork oil, I was going to use 15wt, but it sounds like that is too light. Will get some heavier stuff.

 

If my Memory is correct...12 point 3/8

 

Yup and use 30wt or equivalent for fork oil likes been said.