Brake fluid questions
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Cruiser
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 140
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From: Lake Jackson TX.
Brake fluid questions
I have s 99 RK that I just put a 19 Enforcer from wheel off of a 2018 +/- ( not real sure on year model ) Streetglide. I changed to the front lower forks to accept the 1" / 25mm axle. It's all put together, now I'm having to get newer brake calipers. I'm told I have to stay within the 2000-2004 range or I have to change the whole system, calipers, lines and master cylinder, all because mine is DOT 5 and newer than 2004 is DOT 4 and they cannot mix.... is this REALLY that sensitive? Or can it just be flushed and replaced with WHICHEVER
Last edited by Jeff Dodson; Feb 24, 2019 at 10:09 AM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
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From: NW AR
You can flush out the DoT4 system and put DoT5 in it. I do it in car clutch systems all the time. Even my chopper has a later DoT4 system that someone cleaned out and changed to 5. Works fine. Just flush it all really well. Like, drain it all, spray it down with brake cleaner, fill it up the MC with brake cleaner, pump/flush really well until nothing come out the caliper bleed hole but clean brake cleaner, pull the hose at the MC, hook up to some air and blow it all out for ten minutes, put it all back together and fill with DoT5. Mark as such.
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
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From: Bedford UK
I have a 1990 bike with original spec master cylinders and recent Brembo calipers with DOT5 fluid, following in Dr H's footsteps. In my case I rebuilt the master cylinders and used new hoses, so the calipers were the only things that needed attention - cleaning and flushing to clear out the old fluid.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2016
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From: Wayne County, PA
A good clean and flush and while in the calipers replace the seals. If using alchohol it will tend to damage the seals. Personally unless dealing with abs i tend to fully flush, rebuild, and fill the front and rear systems with dot5. Also remember rubber brake lines only last 4 years before the manufacturer recomends replacing them.
as an example im in the process of going dot5 on the wr250r. Ordered new master cylinder rebuild kits front and rear, front and rear caliper seal kits, and going braided steel line on the front but keeping a rubber rear because of how easy it locks up.
as an example im in the process of going dot5 on the wr250r. Ordered new master cylinder rebuild kits front and rear, front and rear caliper seal kits, and going braided steel line on the front but keeping a rubber rear because of how easy it locks up.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2016
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From: Wayne County, PA
Yes sir. My yamaha service and dyna 95-96 manual both mention it. I have braided steel on the dyna now and the triumph came with braided steel from the factory to not have that problem.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2016
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From: Wayne County, PA
that was the most. I think they do it because the abs. Over time you get flex and tightness in the lines and if that stops fluid from hitting the abs block it could run dry and damage it.
Last edited by Yamaharley; Feb 25, 2019 at 07:32 AM.