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…
piggy backing off this as I’m looking to swap from mechanical to hydraulic discs. I’ve bought all the bits but have never done this before. Am planning to try to DIY it.
A few questions:
Videos i’ve watched suggest you need to use a special cutter for the hydraulic hoses, is this the case or can you get away with a normal cutter? Do we have the right tool at the space?
Do we have the tool to insert to olive? (or is there a hack?)
Given DOT and mineral dont play nicely, do we have different kits to use? I’m on shimano so mineral
I’ve cut a hydraulic hose with a Stanley knife blade before, although I think we may even have the proper tool. The key part is ensuring a flat, clean cut.
An olive can be inserted with a pair of pliers
We have separated DOT and mineral kits. I would advise going mineral as it’s far less of a toxic hazard. The mineral kit is in the workshop cart (green), DOT kit is locked but can be accessed by request.
Ask for help! You’re already on the right path by posting on here, but I’d consider making a plan with one of our more experienced bike members or myself to do this together, as I’m sure there will be questions and considerations that come up that weren’t considered beforehand.
Best – Unicorn
Piggybacking on this… I am building up a bike but having some difficulties with the steerer/compression tube. Would any bike techs be around over the next few days to diagnose with me? Not an urgent need, so can try and time when people plan to be in anyway. Thanks!
The mineral fluid kit is in the green monster. The DOT fluid kit is locked because DOT fluid is hazardous.