My new (relatively speaking!) bike has hydraulic disc brakes. I noticed my rear brake getting a bit soft and noticed a smear of fluid where the line connects to the handle. I tightened up the connection and this seems to have stopped the decline, but I should probably top up the fluid. Do we have the required equipment for this in the space? If not, I’ll get some and donate it.
Also, if anyone has done this themselves, I’d appreciate some guidance! I’ve only ever adjusted cabled caliper brakes before.
Hello!
Yes, we have the required equipment and oil in the space. You will need to do a brake bleed: I suggest checking out these videos on how that works, it’s slightly different for every brand, but the fundamentals are the same: Park Tool - Shimano bleed 5 min brake bleed
This is something I’ve done 3-4 times in the space; it’s very doable with the stand and other accessories (straps to keep your wheel aligned, hold your brakes). I believe we have all the brake blocks and cups for every brand in the lowest drawer of the green monster [workshelves]. If not if @Lia is around ask them to check the locked drawers. If found, please move to the unlocked ones.
Before you start refilling it, though, have a good check that the seals and everything are secure; you may need to trim your line (requires a new small part called an olive) or give the handle a good clean.
I’d be happy to help you with this operation, though. It’s something that’s a bit fiddly, a bit messy, and you need to be sure to clean up and dispose of the oil correctly as it’s corrosive, and a massive pain if you get it ON the disk or brake pads. Shoot me a dm and we can find a convenient time.
Sorry to be late to the party here - this is probably more of a question for the bike techs to discuss amongst ourselves, but do other parts of the space keep hazardous substances under lock and key? I think the more stuff we can have available for general use on the assumption that people are grown-ups, the better. But there may be compelling reasons for not doing this…
The mineral fluid kit is in the green monster. The DOT fluid kit is locked because DOT fluid is hazardous.