You may be wondering how to bleed Harley front brakes. If you’re not sure what to do, read this article to learn how to do it. Listed below are some tips to help you do it yourself. Check your brake fluid level and bleed the brakes properly. Whether they are DOT 4 or 5.1, brake fluid can be a bit difficult to work with. Here are the steps to bleed your bike’s brakes:
DOT 4
If you want to know how to bleed Harley front brakes properly, follow these simple steps: Mix 91% isopropyl alcohol with brake fluid. The alcohol should move into the brake system, and then move out again. Then push the brake pistons into the calipers. Let the DOT4 run through the braking system, and watch for the mix to be much less. If there is too much DOT4, you should replace the brake reservior cover.
Before bleeding the Harley front brakes, make sure the fluid level is at the fill line. Once this is done, remove the diaphragm and cover. If your motorcycle has dual-disc front brakes, start with the left front caliper. While you can do this process in any order, bleeding your front brakes in this order will get the most air out of the caliper and require less pumping. Then, continue to the next caliper. If your motorcycle is equipped with a master cylinder bleed port, you can do it there as well.
Before bleeding Harley front brakes, make sure the master cylinder is clean. Remove the rubber boot and clean it. Next, insert the bleed nipple. You can also use a coffee container to do this task. Ensure that the fluid level is below the maximum level and replace the cap after you’re done. Air past the fitting can cause damage. Always remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for bleeding Harley front brakes.
DOT 5
You may be wondering how to bleed Harley front brakes using a different type of fluid. There are three common types of brake fluid: DOT 4, DOT 5.1, and DOT 3. The higher the number, the higher the heat rating. Too hot brake fluid can cause fade and eventual brake failure, a condition known as boiling brakes. Using a higher number of brake fluid is better for extreme braking.
The first step is to remove the rubber cap on the rear brake caliper and insert the plastic tube covering the tip into the jar. Next, unscrew the four-millimeter cover on the brake reservoir. Then, fill the reservoir with DOT 4 brake fluid. This should remove the bouncy pedal and give you more confidence in your brake system. After completing this step, make sure to keep a jug of DOT 5 brake fluid handy.
You can bleed Harley front brakes without a pump by squeezing the bleed nipple while pressing the brake pedal or lever down. You can also use a clear coffee container. Once you’re satisfied with the amount of fluid, open the bleeder valve a quarter to half turn. You should see a mixture of brake fluid and air exiting the valve. Slowly release the lever or pedal to release the mixture. Repeat this process on the other side.
DOT 5.1
Do you know how to use DOT 5.1 bleeding for Harley front brake systems? Most Harley owners do not, so a little knowledge will go a long way. You can find the proper fluid at a local bike shop, but sometimes dealers may want you to use a different brand of brake fluid. While you can use DOT 4, it is not recommended, as it will ruin the paint and reservior cover.
When DOT 5.1 bleeding for Harley front brake systems is done, the brake fluid can no longer transmit pressure effectively. This fluid is silicone based, not glycol-based, and will not absorb moisture from the air. You can mix the two types of brake fluid, but the boiling point will be much lower than with the higher-grade. If you choose to use a different type, check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure it’s compatible.
To perform a DOT 5.1 bleeding for Harley front brake systems, you must know how to open the bleeder. The bleeder is located on the front caliper. Open it and push the pistons back into the bores to flush the brake fluid. Do this step at least every six months. The bleeding process takes around an hour. A bike shop will recommend bleeding for front brakes every year.