Front brake replacement
Front brake replacement
I am getting ready to Replace my front brake pads. I have a manual and found how tos on youtube. I have done this task many times on cars and trucks. I have never found it necessary to remove the Master cylinder cap on vehicles. So my question is it really necessary on the bike?
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 323
Likes: 5
From: MA
I get the small bottle of fluid and run the whole thing through each season or when I touch the brakes. Cheap insurance.
Plus I remember Grandpa telling me, never use old opened brake fluid as it draws in water over time.
And if you have not tried them get some speed bleeders. $9 a pair at Autozone. One of the best $9 I ever spent.
Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 521
Likes: 3
From: Virginia
I am getting ready to Replace my front brake pads. I have a manual and found how tos on youtube. I have done this task many times on cars and trucks. I have never found it necessary to remove the Master cylinder cap on vehicles. So my question is it really necessary on the bike?
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 157,323
Likes: 56,886
From: Michigan 15 Minutes East Of Hell
You definitely should remove the master cylinder cover to allow for the displacement of fluid from the calipers back through the lines due to the pistons being pushed backed into the caliper bores. There is a significant amount of fluid being dispersed back through the system and it needs somewhere to go. By not removing the top there is a strong probability of further problems, including master cylinder problems and fluid oozing/squirting out of the seal at the top of the master and leaking/dripping out onto painted surfaces of the scooter. Brake fluid can/will wreak havoc with painted surfaces.
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Tourer
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 416
Likes: 14
From: Texas
You definitely should remove the master cylinder cover to allow for the displacement of fluid from the calipers back through the lines due to the pistons being pushed backed into the caliper bores. There is a significant amount of fluid being dispersed back through the system and it needs somewhere to go. By not removing the top there is a strong probability of further problems, including master cylinder problems and fluid oozing/squirting out of the seal at the top of the master and leaking/dripping out onto painted surfaces of the scooter. Brake fluid can/will wreak havoc with painted surfaces.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 157,323
Likes: 56,886
From: Michigan 15 Minutes East Of Hell
Your statement is correct, but consider this... The operative word is "if" ... What if a tech has topped off the fluid during a scheduled service? Having been an ASE mechanic my whole life ( and owning my own business for more years than many are old here ) has helped me to remember to never assume anything. If there's a possibility, address your concerns accordingly.
