Yes I have read the threads concerning 4 or 5 but after I had looked up the manual for my 07 ultra on the Harley web page and I made sure that it says to use dot 4 I have just now noticed as I was about to change my pads tonight the caps do in fact say to use dot 5! One of the posts said to use what the cap says and another says go with the manual. So who has an 07 ultra glide and what is in yours, 4 or 5? Thanks in advance, thought I could get this done tonight.

 

This thread may be helpful... https://www.hdforums.com/forum/softa...e-fluid-2.html

 

07 Sg, the front brake cylinder reservoir cover says DOT4

 

Replacement and aftermarket covers will fit different years. Cover may say DOT5 on it, but.....

 

Checked both thinking that maybe the front one may be different since the bars were changed but the rear cap also says 5.

 

According to the one post they went back to 4 after 06, did they ever go back to 5? Will have to try that test mentioned of taking a capfull from the researvior and putting in a drop from the bottle, although what I have is bottle of Prestone dot 3 and a bottle of castrol lma which says it exceeds dot 3 and dot 4, not really sure what that means. Think I will just get a bottle of 4 and try the test.

 

Why take a risk? The implications of getting it wrong make this simply not worth it.

Take it to the dealer and ask them to advise. If they can't, then try to get a sample analysed. If this was not on option I would do some thorough research to see if there is a way of testing. For example, one of the main differences appears to be the effect on paint. Get a small plate that is painted and scratch the middle through to the bare metal. Put a teaspoon of the fluid on there and see what happens after a day or so.

Possibly consider buying a small bottle of each type and feel the difference. If you put a small amount on your finger and rub with another finger you will also quickly tell the difference. Obviously make sure you wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. A small amount like take wont be a problem

 

HD went to DOT 4 with 05 model year--probably because 05 was first year of ABS for HD.

Carl

 

but is it different with or with out ABS , my 07 Ultra does not have ABS , but I think I would go by the cap

 

Did you buy the bike new? If you can't be 150% certain that what the cap says is what is inside....