Hi guys just wondering if you take the master cylinder covers off to check your brake fluid levels do you have to bleed them afterwards. My rear brake on 05 883 low feels pretty soft. If its low on fluid can you just top it off. Thanks jeff.

 

Yes you can just take the covers off to fill them.

 

If the fluid is just low you can top it off, but a low level, as long as it's not sucking air, isn't going to cause a soft pedal.

It may be time to replace the fluid. The required DOT fluid type (4 or 5) is embossed on the top of the master cylinder cap.

 

xFreebirdx and cHarley,

I always see you guys postin' up some good info, just wnted to say thanks!

J

 

Thanks, I don't begin to claim to know it all, and the info I post here is only what I've learned along the way from knowledge passed on by others and my own personal experience. Shared knowledge makes life better for everyone.

 

Hi Jeff
I got an '05. It had rear master cyl problems. I hear this is common. I found out about this when I attempted to bleed the rear brakes. They would not bleed. Most guys end up replacing the rear master cylinder. But....this may not be your problem.
Good Luck........Pete

 

I actually had to replace the rear caliper on mine, never seen anyone else have to do that, but my old just went bad.

 

thanks guys.

 

Speaking of that. I think I'm gonna finally breakdown and change my brake fluid. Geeze I've really been dreading that!! (Yes, I still have the original brake fluid in my bike)

 

Yep, I'd say you're over due Bud. An easy six pack job, but speed bleeders make it much easier.