48
6.4 Disc brakes
The hydraulic disc brakes require regular attention and maintenance. The most common task is replacing the
disc pads. These will wear under normal use and rill require periodic replacement to keep the brakes working
properly.
Your disc brakes may squeal under braking. This is normal, and will change depending on how worn the pads are
and how damp or cold the rotor is. A brake which is hot and dry will rarely squeal.
The braking performance will be severely reduced if the system is contaminated. Clean the calipers, lever, and
rotors with water and a clean cloth. If the disc rotor becomes contaminated with oil or grease, it can be cleaned
by wiping with a cloth with isopropyl alcohol or disc brake cleaning products designed specifically for disc brakes.
It is almost impossible to properly clean contaminated pads; they should be replaced.
Check the caliper and lever for any signs of fluid leaks and the hose for any damage such as chaffing or being
roughly handled. A damaged hose could cause a system leak, which will severely impair braking performance or
cause the brakes to fail.
Brake pads need replacing when the friction material is worn, contaminated or damaged. Don’t wait until the
friction material is worn through to the backing plate to replace the pads. To maintain safe and efficient braking,
the pads need to be replaced if the material is worn down to 0.5mm.
Replacing Brake Pads – follow the instructions that are supplied with your brakes. Parts and spares are available
from ICE.
Bleeding the Brake System - Bleeding the brake system is a procedure where new hydraulic fluid is used to
replace leaked oil or to flush out any trapped air. Air in the system will reduce the braking performance and the
feel of the brake. To bleed your brakes, follow the instructions that were supplied with your brakes. Parts and
spares are available from ICE. Your brake takes mineral oil, which is not the same as hydraulic fluid used for
automotive brakes and clutches. Using automotive fluid will ruin the seals in your brakes and they WILL fail!
Always use mineral oil; a good source is LHM mineral oil used in many Citroen and Jaguar motor vehicles. One
liter is inexpensive and will last you a lifetime.
Troubleshooting
Symptoms
Possible Cause
Corrective Action
Lever goes to the handlebar
System leak
Air in the System
Brake pads worn out
Re-bleed the system
Re-bleed the system
Replace pads
Spongy Lever
Air in the system
Re-bleed the system
Disc Rotor rubbing on the Pads
Caliper not centred over
disc
Inadequate clearance
Bent rotor
Re-centre the caliper
Push piston back
Replace new rotor
No braking power
Contaminated pads
Worn out pads
Contaminated disc
Replace new pads
Replace new pads
Clean disc with alcohol
Pads fall out
Missing pin
Replace pin
Fluid loss
Hose leaking
Banjo leaking
Caliper bleeding
Tighten hose nut
Replace new hose
Replace banjo O-ring
Tighten or replace bleeder
Warning: If you are not confident of servicing your brakes
correctly, we strongly recommended that you have a competent
cycle mechanic service your disc brake system. Always wear
protective clothing, safety glasses and gloves when servicing this
system.
Summary of Contents for TRICE 'Q'
Page 4: ...4 1 1 Overview ...