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Author Topic: Front Brake Lever "ratcheting" feel  (Read 1064 times)
SpidyJ
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Posts: 794

Murrells Inlet


« on: April 30, 2012, 07:23:46 AM »

So, when I pull on the lever to stop it comes on smooth at first then moves in steps as I apply more pressure.

Opinions?

Lever or Caliper pistons hanging up?

thx
jpw
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1999 Fast Black Interstate

Peace,
johnnywebb
Chrisj CMA
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Posts: 14807


Crestview (Panhandle) Florida


« Reply #1 on: April 30, 2012, 07:28:49 AM »

take the lever off and clean the pivot and the bushing and relube.  Also make sure there is no burr on the foot that presses on the actuator that goes intot eh master cylinder.  If that foot area is rough in any way just smooth it out with some emory cloth and you should be back to normal
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Daniel Meyer
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Author. Adventurer. Electrician.

The State of confusion.


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« Reply #2 on: April 30, 2012, 08:21:31 AM »

take the lever off and clean the pivot and the bushing and relube.  Also make sure there is no burr on the foot that presses on the actuator that goes intot eh master cylinder.  If that foot area is rough in any way just smooth it out with some emory cloth and you should be back to normal

What he said! Really does feel it's binding up without occasional clean/lube of the pivot and bushing. Clutch side needs the same thing. Also replace if bushings are worn very much.
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CUAgain,
Daniel Meyer
redflash
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Posts: 143


Southern New Hampshire


« Reply #3 on: April 30, 2012, 08:25:01 AM »

Had the same problem last year, the foot of the brake lever and the head of the push rod were not smooth, I  guess they corrode over time, being dissimilar metals. Fine emery cloth and a spot of red, waterproof grease has them working smooth the past year since I did them.

EDIT: Yep, last year in May: http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,28182.msg265531.html#msg265531
« Last Edit: April 30, 2012, 08:32:42 AM by redflash » Logged
SpidyJ
Member
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Posts: 794

Murrells Inlet


« Reply #4 on: April 30, 2012, 08:48:24 AM »

Thanks folks... the lever is the first thing I was gonna check.

(this place is amazing!)
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1999 Fast Black Interstate

Peace,
johnnywebb
Irish-Valk
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Posts: 85


Ireland


« Reply #5 on: April 30, 2012, 12:09:20 PM »

I'm assumng it is the 'front' break lever. Had the same problem a few months ago myself and suspected the worst, thinking it had to be either the master cylinder or the calliper.
So as not to jump in to deeply I decided to remove the break lever (one bolt) and apply some lube. To my ammasement this actually fixed the problem, couldn't believe a dry dry pivot would result in such a jumpy movement of the lever.
So go for the easy option first..
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JP in SC
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Posts: 73


Palmetto State Valk

New Prospect, Upstate SC


« Reply #6 on: April 30, 2012, 01:14:07 PM »

I had the same problem on my Valkrie. The bushing was fine, the lever and piston interface was smooth and i lubed it.No difference. Ordered the master cylinder rebuild kit and in about an hour (included a full fluid flush and bleed) the brakes were as smooth and strong as new. Part no. 45530-MA4-671 for my 98. about thirty dollars from HDL Parts
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John

98 Standard - Black & Chrome
04 ST1300
Ricky-D
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Posts: 5031


South Carolina midlands


« Reply #7 on: April 30, 2012, 01:15:50 PM »

When asking about maintenance items, this should be at the top of the list and it is so very simple.

That's probably why it's neglected so widely.

A small shot of lubricant (oil) is all that's needed occasionally, monthly is best.

Stops squeaks and wear and rough operation, maintains long parts life, insures workability.

***
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2000_Valkyrie_Interstate
SpidyJ
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Posts: 794

Murrells Inlet


« Reply #8 on: May 01, 2012, 05:59:01 AM »

Fixed.  Schmutz on all the lever mating parts.  Cleaned, sanded smooth and oiled.  What a diff!
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1999 Fast Black Interstate

Peace,
johnnywebb
redflash
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Posts: 143


Southern New Hampshire


« Reply #9 on: May 01, 2012, 08:05:29 AM »

that doggone schmutz!!
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