time between brake fluid change

Zapper · #1 10-25-2007, 03:33 AM

My 06 fatboy is coming on to two years and the manual says brake fluid needs to be changed every two years.Is it easy to bleed the brakes anddo you have to do it every two years..thanks

Dorkman · #2 10-25-2007, 04:58 PM

You don't mention your mileage, but two years seems like a very short interval to change brake fluid. You sure it didn't say to "inspect" the brake fluid? I don't havea Fatboy or it's manual, so I can't say for sure. If it needs to be changed, pick up a Clymer service manual for detailed instructions. It is not difficult.

Gundog · #3 10-25-2007, 06:35 PM

My 07 Softail service manual says to "Change DOT 4 brake fluid and flush every two years". For what ever thats worth.

WildBill2566 · #4 10-26-2007, 08:15 AM

Most if not all hydrolic fluids are hydroscopic which is why the 2 year change is specified. As it absorbs the water it becomes less effective.

Most mc manufacturers quote about 2 years, and I usually change mine between 2 and 3 years unless I notice a drop in brakeing performance earlier than that.

WB

Zapper · #5 10-28-2007, 11:22 PM

Thanks looks likeI am going to change the brake fluids to be on the safe side.Didn't realise that brake fluid can absorb water hence the freqent changes

wendellja · #6 10-28-2007, 11:42 PM

I change it yearly. Going is an option. Stopping is not. By replacing your fluid yearly, it can help ID problem sooner than later.

Also, do one of two thing (but not both). Get a mityvac ($30) or a set of speed bleeders ($30 for 2). These tools will make changing fluid fun. I have a mityvac (for the cars) and speed bleeders on the bikes.

It was so much fun I did my bike, then my wife's bike, my neighbor's bike, my truck, and my wife's car.