Front Brake Caliper Leak (2005 / 620)

[Tiger Terrrific]

Hi Guys,

Nice ride out to Wisemans yesterday but noticed a progressive loss of front brake during the trip.

Pulled over and found a leaking nipple on the left hand caliper but by this time, too late.

Eventually lost all front braking and had to ride home with only the rear & gears to pull me up.

Big question - can If fix this myself by just tightening up this fitting and refilling the fluid in the coffin (sounds too simple hey  ) or do I have a bigger problem to deal with.

Have looked all through the DMF Tech Area for a similar problem, but a bit like a needle in hay-stack.

As always - thanks in advance for what I know will be good advice - Cheers Brett

[suzyj]

Yup. There's no need to replace anything as long as the nipple will do up snug. It'll take some bleeding tho to get any trapped air out of the system.

[Tiger Terrrific]

Thanks Suz - champion (appreciate the photo too  ) - should be able to knock this out tomorrow and back on the road.

Love this site !!!!

[OzzyRob]

I've always had more success pushing the fluid from the nipple up to the master cylinder. Just need to get your hands on a "horse" syringe. Actually get 2, it makes removing the excess fluid from the MC easier.

http://www.dirtrider.com/features/bleeding-your-brakes-dr-dirts-wrenching-tips/

[Tiger Terrrific]

Thanks Rob - looks like my standard tool-kit needs some tubing and a syringe. 

[FIFO]

Hey tiger make sure you was off any brake fluid that has leaked or spilt  over the bike as it is very corrosive and can eat through paint.

Rinse  with plain water is ok 

[OzzyRob]

I put alternative layers of plastic and old towels over the tank. Some towels on the floor where you're working is a good tip as well, you will spill some fluid. And after bleeding I give the bike a good wash.

Oh and make sure you don't forget to give the lever a couple of good pumps prior to taking off for a shakedown ride.

Before you start make sure the area around the bleed nipple and the nipple it self are clean.

[Tiger Terrrific]

Cheers guys - knocked it over yesterday with everyones advice and had it done in about 15min.

Made a bit of a mess along the way (trail & error to some extent), but all good and back on the road like new.

Thanks again for all your tips,really appreciate how everyone jumps in to offer assistance.

Champions !