Hard to push

[Radioguylogs]

Running DOT 5 silicone now as the system was spotless

No going back.

I went to DOT5 in my Vmax and I like it better.

[skids]

be careful with the jack and how it raises up the Xs,,,,these big ol heavy bikes tip Very Easy, had mine tip over when I raised it too high to take off the rear wheel to clear the fender and over it went. Pain ini the arsss to get upright again,,,Mike in S.Diego and Pa.

Ouch! Poor bike.

[jetmechmarty]

My XS has over 100,000 miles on it. The rear master cylinder and caliper have never been apart. It’s had routine fluid changes only. The fronts were rebuilt once. Another fluid change last month.

[cajun31]

My XS has over 100,000 miles on it. The rear master cylinder and caliper have never been apart. It’s had routine fluid changes only. The fronts were rebuilt once. Another fluid change last month.

I have always tried to follow the manual concerning brake fluid changes. If I recall right it specifically states to change the fluid every couple of years. Doing so avoids most of the problems associated with the hygroscopic nature of DOT 3 and all the glycol based brake fluids on the market today concerning their nature to absorb water. The water does the damage. Keeping the fluids fresh by total replacement basically eliminates those problems. Most folks problems with these bikes being over 40 plus years old now is the neglect they have had to endure. Guilty as life gets in the way sometimes.

Went back and read the owners manual for my bike and it states that total Brake fluid replacement should only be performed by a qualified Yamaha mechanic, LOL. It also states that the seals should be replaced every two years and all brake hoses every four years. Couldn't find where I have read about refreshing the brake fluid.

[jetmechmarty]

Couldn't find where I have read about refreshing the brake fluid.

No, but we know periodic maintenance is the cheapest option in both time and money. Back in the 90's I went to school on advance brakes as I was moonlighting at a garage. I clearly remember the instructor said, "A Chrysler mini van master cylinder cost is $2,700. You have to get your customers in every 24 months for brake fluid change to avoid expensive repair bills."

[DEEBS11]

Yes, it's every two years. I just did the rear today. Keep it clean and it will take care of you. Gotta use a Mityvac to do the job correctly.

[bikerphil]

Hack of the Day...

To avoid sucking fluid into the vac gun, put the container in a C-clamp (tighten lightly) and it won't tip over.

[oldyam80sg]

This has been on hold-I have bad tendonitis / bursitis in my left arm and cant raise it without lots of pain.

[Larrym]

Hack of the Day...

To avoid sucking fluid into the vac gun, put the container in a C-clamp (tighten lightly) and it won't tip over.

Alternate Vacuum system recently at wurk.....



Yes....That IS a glass pickle jar. ʅ(́◡◝)ʃ

[bikerphil]

Yep, these home made tools are cool, fun to build and design, and they work really well most of the time. I have more than a few homemade tools myself.

[skids]

Hack of the Day...

To avoid sucking fluid into the vac gun, put the container in a C-clamp (tighten lightly) and it won't tip over.

Really a good idea Phil!

[bikerphil]

Thanks, Sid. No more having to take the pump apart and clean it in the middle of a brake bleeding job.