Changing front brake cables on FXDF
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Road Master
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 996
Likes: 29
From: Albany, NY
Changing front brake cables on FXDF
I have done a search, and I can't find anything specific when it comes to changing the front brake cables on a Fat Bob (dual front discs). I have zero experience working on brake lines. The most I've done is changed brake pads on a car, and have never bled any lines or anything before. Here are my questions?
1: Do I need to drain the lines/calipers/master cylinder before unhooking the stock banjos from the calipers/MC?
2: Is there a best method of bleeding the system of air once I get the new stuff installed.
I appreciate any info you folks can give me. All the info that I've come across points to the process (especially bleeding) being a huge PITA, so I'm looking for some encouragement I guess. I'm sure I can handle it. I did already do the internal wiring extensions for my new bars, primary cover replacement, top and bottom rocker cover replacement, and turn signal relocation. Just fishing for a few helpful hints to make the job go smoothly. Thanks everyone!
1: Do I need to drain the lines/calipers/master cylinder before unhooking the stock banjos from the calipers/MC?
2: Is there a best method of bleeding the system of air once I get the new stuff installed.
I appreciate any info you folks can give me. All the info that I've come across points to the process (especially bleeding) being a huge PITA, so I'm looking for some encouragement I guess. I'm sure I can handle it. I did already do the internal wiring extensions for my new bars, primary cover replacement, top and bottom rocker cover replacement, and turn signal relocation. Just fishing for a few helpful hints to make the job go smoothly. Thanks everyone!
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 3,438
Likes: 3
From: Chesterfield, VA
First, be aware that brake fluid is hard on finishes, so be careful. One drop can kill a paint job.
You can disconnect the line at the calibers first and allow them to drain into a pan.
The master cylinder can be a bitch to bleed. A $40.00 manual vacuum pump is a great investment. I pissed away that much in brake fluid first time I tried to bleed mine without the pump.
You can disconnect the line at the calibers first and allow them to drain into a pan.
The master cylinder can be a bitch to bleed. A $40.00 manual vacuum pump is a great investment. I pissed away that much in brake fluid first time I tried to bleed mine without the pump.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 7,736
Likes: 1,524
From: Coromandel Peninsula New Zealand
If no pump you need to attach lines to the master cylinder and hold them as high in the air as you can. Get an assistant to block the banjos with thumb and finger while you pump the lever, get them to release the air from the banjos alternately and hold them shut each time you release the lever.
When they start spurting fluid (have a plastic sheet over your paintwork unless using dot 5 fluid) then you bring the lines to the calipers (still holding them shut with fingers) and then (one at a time) slam the bolts in and tighten them onto the calipers. Pump like crazy with the bleed nipples shut until you get vague pressure, then finish bleeding as per normal procedures.
Works for me......
When they start spurting fluid (have a plastic sheet over your paintwork unless using dot 5 fluid) then you bring the lines to the calipers (still holding them shut with fingers) and then (one at a time) slam the bolts in and tighten them onto the calipers. Pump like crazy with the bleed nipples shut until you get vague pressure, then finish bleeding as per normal procedures.
Works for me......
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 6,642
Likes: 48
From: Ogden, UT
Get a vacuum pump, you can use it to cleanly suck the fluid out of the calipers as well as for bleeding the brakes. Get some rags and as mentioned, protect your paint.
Harbor freight has a decent pump.
http://www.harborfreight.com/mityvac...ump-39522.html
or
http://www.harborfreight.com/brake-b...kit-92474.html
Harbor freight has a decent pump.
http://www.harborfreight.com/mityvac...ump-39522.html
or
http://www.harborfreight.com/brake-b...kit-92474.html
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