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master cylinder leak

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Old Sep 11, 2014 | 06:54 PM
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Default master cylinder leak

I put a rsd front master cylinder cap on my 09 train. I followed the instructions and a two days later I noticed it was leaking break fluid all over my bars and destroyed them. I bought a new gasket hoping it would stop and it still leaks. Anyone else have a problem like this? Or any thoughts how how to stop it from leaking and ruining my new apes?
 
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Old Sep 11, 2014 | 08:38 PM
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What kind of brake oil are you using that would destroy bars? Post a pic

Could you have cracked the seal? Or over torqued?

The master cylinder leaking is a common issue
 
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Old Sep 11, 2014 | 10:43 PM
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I'd have to double check but I am using the recommended harley fluid which I believe is dot 5. The bars just need to be re powder coated is all because there are streaks of fluid running down them. I ordered another gasket and if it doesn't do the trick I'll put the stock cover back on. Ive been told it may be a slighty defected part also.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 04:57 AM
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Very important...do not over tighten!!!!! Slightly snug is better than too tight...distorts the seal...I know, been there done that...lol. Hope its an easy fix for you.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 05:35 AM
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Don't know about RSD but many people have this trouble with the Harley cylinder caps, me included, had a slight leak on both of mine Which caused a small area of paint to bubble, changed the covers and they've been ok ever since, suspect as Rodzilla6 says over tightening is the cause, don't know why Harleys don't copy the Metric bikes and fit round cylinders with screw down covers, never known them to leak.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 11:31 AM
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I had two leaking caps replaced under warranty and they both leaked. I bought the h-d chrome caps and replaced them myself,problem solved.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 07:19 PM
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Originally Posted by Rodzilla6
Very important...do not over tighten!!!!! Slightly snug is better than too tight...distorts the seal...I know, been there done that...lol. Hope its an easy fix for you.
Thanks for the input, I would bet I was over tighting it. I figured the tighter it was bolted down the less likely it would be to leak. I'll try just snug with the new gasket and if it fails back to the stock cap I guess.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 08:07 PM
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This is the only way I've ever gotten mine to stop leaking:

1. Make sure bike is 100% upright and handlebars are straight and remove cap.
2. Thoroughly wipe down the entire gasket. Needs to be 100% dry when you re-install it.
3. Wipe all edges of the reservoir, carefully
4. Replace the cap and do not over tighten.

Lots of people do not follow step 2 and it results in leaks.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 10:11 PM
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Originally Posted by kerplunk38
This is the only way I've ever gotten mine to stop leaking:

1. Make sure bike is 100% upright and handlebars are straight and remove cap.
2. Thoroughly wipe down the entire gasket. Needs to be 100% dry when you re-install it.
3. Wipe all edges of the reservoir, carefully
4. Replace the cap and do not over tighten.

Lots of people do not follow step 2 and it results in leaks.

I really appreciate the input. The new gasket should be here in a few days and I will definitely use your advice. I'd hate not to use the RSD cap I bought for it.
 
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Old Nov 13, 2014 | 10:27 PM
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Originally Posted by kerplunk38
This is the only way I've ever gotten mine to stop leaking:

1. Make sure bike is 100% upright and handlebars are straight and remove cap.
2. Thoroughly wipe down the entire gasket. Needs to be 100% dry when you re-install it.
3. Wipe all edges of the reservoir, carefully
4. Replace the cap and do not over tighten.

Lots of people do not follow step 2 and it results in leaks.


Sorry for delayed post but I followed your instructions step by step and no more leaks! Thanks for the help
 
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