Welcome to our guide on Harley Davidson brake pad replacement! As a proud owner of a Harley Davidson motorcycle, you know the thrill of hitting the open road on two wheels. However, to ensure your safety and maintain the performance of your beloved ride, it’s essential to keep your brakes in top-notch condition.
➔ Change your Harley Davidson brake Pads in 10 Easy Steps
Step no 1) Collect Tools & other stuff
Step no 2) Elevate Your Motorcycle
Step no 3) Loosen the Caliper Bolts
Step no 4) Remove the Old Brake Pads
Step no 5) Clean the Components & Apply Grease
Step no 6) Install the New Brake Pads
Step no 7) Reattach the Caliper
Step no 8) Lower the Motorcycle
Step no 9) Check the Brake Fluid Level
Step no 10) Test the Brakes
Step no 1) Collect Tools & other stuff
To replace the brake pads on a Harley Davidson motorcycle, you will need the following items and tools:
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Brake Pads | ● Choose one according to your needs |
Owner’s Manual | ● For specific instructions on size, type, and safety precautions for brake pad |
Socket Set | ● Remove and install the brake caliper bolts. |
Brake Fluid | ● Be prepared to check the brake fluid level in the reservoir and top it up if needed. |
Safety Gear | ● Always wear gloves and safety glasses |
Brake Cleaner | ● To thoroughly clean the brake caliper, rotor, and other components before installation |
Torque Wrench | ● Ensure you tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. |
Towels or Rags | ● For cleaning and wiping off excess grease or dirt.
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Jack or Motorcycle Stand | ● Elevate the motorcycle safely and securely to gain access to the wheels and brakes. |
Copper Grease (Anti-Seize) | ● To prevent squeaking and reduce vibration.
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C-Clamp or Brake Piston Compression Tool | ● To compress the brake caliper pistons and make room for the new, thicker brake pads. |
Step no 2) Elevate Your Motorcycle
First, find a nice flat surface to park your Harley Davidson. Then, grab a sturdy jack or a reliable motorcycle stand to lift your bike off the ground. This step is crucial as it gives you easy access to the wheels and brakes, simplifying the whole process.
Step no 3) Loosen the Caliper Bolts
Alright, let’s get those caliper bolts loosened up! Locate the brake calipers, usually positioned near the wheels. Use your trusty socket set to loosen those bolts carefully. Once they’re loose, gently slide the caliper off the brake rotor. Just be extra cautious not to damage the brake line – we want everything to go smoothly!
Step no 4) Remove the Old Brake Pads
Say goodbye to the old brake pads – it’s time for a fresh start! With the caliper pistons compressed, you can slide those old pads out. Oh, and remember to note their position and how they’re oriented mentally. That’ll be helpful when we install the new ones later.
Step no 5) Clean the Components & Apply Grease
Cleanliness is the name of the game! Grab some brake cleaner and thoroughly clean the brake caliper, rotor, and other nearby components. Get rid of all the dirt, dust, and old grease. Trust me, your brakes will love you for it, and it’ll make the replacement process smooth like butter!
This is a little secret to keep your brakes happy – copper grease! Add a small dab to the back of the new brake pads. Why? It’s like a superhero that fights squeaks and reduces vibration when you hit the brakes. Your ears and hands will thank you later!
Step no 6) Install the New Brake Pads
Here comes the exciting part – the new brake pads! Carefully slide them into the caliper, ensuring they’re sitting just like the old ones were – same position and orientation. And don’t forget to check that the caliper pistons are A-okay and not causing any trouble.
Here’s a nifty trick to fit those thicker, new brake pads! Grab a C-clamp or a brake piston compression tool – they’re superheroes for this job. Gently apply pressure to compress the caliper pistons. The key here is to apply even pressure on both sides to avoid any mishaps.
Step no 7) Reattach the Caliper
Time to reunite the caliper with the brake rotor! Gently slide it back into place, aligning it perfectly with the wheel and brake assembly. Now, let’s tighten those caliper bolts using a torque wrench. We want to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for this – safety first!
Step no 8) Lower the Motorcycle
You’ve done impressive work so far, but we’re still going! It’s time to carefully lower your motorcycle back to the ground from the jack or stand. Take it easy and make sure the wheels are sitting firmly and evenly on the ground.
Step no 9) Check the Brake Fluid Level
Last but not least, let’s check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. You want it at the right level, so if it’s a little low, top it up. And don’t forget – ensure the reservoir cap is tightly secured. Safety is our top priority, after all!
Step no 10) Test the Brakes
Before you hit the road, let’s give those new brake pads a little test run. Pump the brake lever or pedal several times to ensure they’re all set and ready to go. Smooth operation and responsiveness are the names of the game here!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced the brake pads on your Harley Davidson. Your bike is now ready to be driven on the road with confidence and style. Regular brake maintenance is vital for a smooth and safe ride, so keep an eye on those brakes and enjoy your thrilling adventures on your Harley!
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