How to change brake fluid on Motorcycle?
Because brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, it needs to be changed in order to ensure that it retains its properties and to prevent mechanical parts from wearing out.
Brake fluid types
There are 3 main types of brake fluids: DOT3 and DOT4 (both absorbing water) and DOT5 (not absorbing water) Most brake fluid that comes in a new car will be rated DOT 3. A few will Use DOT 4, and very few will ever use DOT 5 which is a silicone based product.
The manufacturer's service manual will tell you what type of brake fluid you should use and will show you where the container is located.
When to change brake fluid?
As a general rule, the brake fluid level should be checked every 100 km or every month or so, and it should be changed around every two years.
How to change brake fluid on a motorcycle/scooter?
Draining out brake fluid is a risky operation if not carried out properly – air bubbles can get into the circuit. Be careful – brake fluid is a hazardous fluid. It is therefore a good idea to protect the various components which may come into contact with it.
Before changing brake fluid
Make sure the engine has been switched off for 15 to 30 minutes so that the oil has returned to the bottom of the sump.
Put your motorcycle on its stand so that it can be stood up and ensure that it is on a surface that is stable and horizontal. Tilt the handlebars so that the brake fluid container is as horizontal as possible
Brake fluid change equipment:
- obtain the recommended brake fluid
- a container for the used oil
- a standard set of tools
Brake fluid change
First steps:
- Unscrew the screws in order to open the brake fluid container cap (also referred to as the master cylinder reservoir)
- Locate the receiver. The receiver has a drain in the high position in order to evacuate air bubbles
- Remove the drain’s cap and install a pipe on the drain's screw. Place this pipe in a container in order to retrieve the used liquid
- Remove some of the used braking liquid from the master cylinder's reservoir, but make sure that you leave a little so that air does not get into the circuit.
Add the oil
- Use a syringe to inject a little new liquid into the reservoir.
- Squeeze and then release the brake lever 3 consecutive times, then action the brake lever once again and hold it. Slightly unscrew the drain's screw.
How to flush brake fluid
- Slowly release the brake and watch the fluid leave the pipe.
- Then tighten the drain screw before releasing the handle.
- Replacing brake fluid - Repeat this action until new fluid appears in the pipe, without any air bubbles.
Advice on How to drain brake fluid : each time you carry out the operation, remember to put new fluid into the reservoir to ensure that air does not get into it. - Once the process is complete, tighten the drain screw, put new fluid into the master cylinder reservoir without exceeding the marker, then screw the lid back on.