problems bleeding brakes.

Kdub

Active Member
I changed my rear tire yesterday and noticed what I could only assume was brake fluid on the tire. After I got it all put back together I couldn't see it leaking anywhere anymore. Of course now my rear brake is sloppy. I've tried conventional bleeding but its not getting tight. It doesn't get small bubbles but the same single large bubble over and over. I'm going to get a syringe and reverse bleed it, but I'm worried its getting air in from somewhere in the line. Any ideas where around the caliper I should start checking? Also I'm getting dirty fluid from the line into the master cylinder if that means anything.
 

moog5050

Active Member
You could try leaving it over night. Most of the bubbles should evacuate on their own. Good luck. I hate bleeding brakes. Never goes smoothly for me.
 

Kdub

Active Member
That makes 2 of us. I understand the concept, however it never works the way it should.
 

mobsta

Well-Known Member
Try using a oil can instead of a seringe holds more fluid and open the bleed screw slightly.If you think somethings leaking also check the fitting to the master.Why would your brake be sloppy from changing your tire?
 

Kdub

Active Member
That's what I'm trying to figure out. When I took off the caliper I think something happened and fluid leaked out and air got in somehow. Everything is tight up now and not leaking anywhere. When I tried to reverse bleed it a bunch of fluid came out of the bleeder where it is threaded into the caliper. Guess ill have to tear everything down tomorrow and see if I can find a culprit. I swear if its not one fucking thing its another.
 

mobsta

Well-Known Member
If fluid came out around the bleed screw its to loose.Is your caliper spaced with washers?When you removed the caliper you may have knocked the line loose or something.One thing after another is the nature of these beast.Good luck hope you figure it out...
 

awg

Guru
What I did is kind of cheap but it did work. I took some clear plastic hose about a foot or two long. I opened the bleeder put the hose on the end took the cap off the master cylinder and started sucking on the end. yea it sounds weird but as I am sucking the old fluid through I can see the clean fluid and all the air being removed. Worked for me.
 

Kdub

Active Member
What I did is kind of cheap but it did work. I took some clear plastic hose about a foot or two long. I opened the bleeder put the hose on the end took the cap off the master cylinder and started sucking on the end. yea it sounds weird but as I am sucking the old fluid through I can see the clean fluid and all the air being removed. Worked for me.
That is awesome!
 

francoblay1

The Spaniard
That is awesome!
Well, I did use same system to take the transmission fluid out ... (the bottom was totally impossible to reach as my oil lines are in the way!!!) It takes time but it works!!!

About bleeding brakes.... unless you have a small hole along the system... I have never had to bleed them... just keep pumping with the tank open and keep adding... you will see the bubbles coming out to the top. just my experience with my K9.

By the way, I use DOT 4 as 5 is no longer available in Spain.
 

rottie1

Member
you can also go to the local parts store and get a cheap self beeder system it comes with a long clear hose to go over the bleeder screw and a canister with a magnet on the back so you can stick it to the bike and not hold it and as you pump the brakes all the air and fluid go in the canister and no air gets in the system . Has always worked for me
 

Kdub

Active Member
I must say I'm shocked and amazed. I left a weight on the brake pedal overnight hoping any air would rise to the surface. Figured what the hell. It worked. Went out this morning and it was tightened up. Had the old man pump it a few times while I cracked the bleeder just to be certain and now I'm ready to go test ride. Thanks for all the help.
 
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