'99 883c front caliper question
#1
10-24-2010, 11:12 PM
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'99 883c front caliper question
today I replaced the front pads for the first time. After getting everything back together I noticed there is a small gap between the bottom of the caliper and the fork mounting tab. I thought the caliper mounts flush against the tab? both mounting bolts are TQ'ed to spec. also the caliper will move a little bit if you jiggle it. all help appreciated!
#3
10-25-2010, 07:24 PM
I looked at my 93 because we have similar calipers and I have a gap on the lower bolt/mount like you've explained. My caliper moves a bit when I grab ahold of it pretty good (I checked only because of what you posted) and I've never had a problem with it.
Mine doesn't move at all with the brake applied.
Mine doesn't move at all with the brake applied.
#4
10-25-2010, 07:28 PM
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My Clymer service manual says that there are bushings between the caliper and fork slider on a 99. Those guarantee correct spacing/alignment to the disk. Check to see if those are right? Otherwise, it could just be the character of the bike. If the brakes run true and don't bind or wear bad (in the future), chances are it's alright.
Last edited by Scuba10jdl; 10-25-2010 at 07:34 PM.
#5
10-25-2010, 07:33 PM
Recently rebuilt both the front and rear brakes on my 02 XL883. The front brake should mount tight to the fork slider. The fact that it can jiggle means there is something wrong. I can't think of a reason why it would do so if it was all fine when you took it off the bike. Re-check the mounting bolts and make sure they are aligned and threaded properly. Then check to see if the caliper body is warped or something.
I'm not saying it's not messed up...but I think it could be "ok" simply because mine has been that way for as long as it has been with no issues.
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10-25-2010, 07:38 PM
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#8
10-25-2010, 07:46 PM
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thanks for the help guys. everything is lined up perfect and they work better than ever. I just do not remember that small gap being between the caliper and lower mounting tab.
my HD manual says the same thing about there being bushings, but there were not any that I saw when taking it off. I have had the caliper off before to service the front wheel being extra careful not to lose or misplace. Maybe it has always been there and I just didnt notice. I might take a ride down to the local dealer and "look" at some of their used SPortys and see how they look. Normally I would not be worried but since it IS the front brake I want to make sure it is perfect.
my HD manual says the same thing about there being bushings, but there were not any that I saw when taking it off. I have had the caliper off before to service the front wheel being extra careful not to lose or misplace. Maybe it has always been there and I just didnt notice. I might take a ride down to the local dealer and "look" at some of their used SPortys and see how they look. Normally I would not be worried but since it IS the front brake I want to make sure it is perfect.
#9
10-25-2010, 08:16 PM